What you need for a monologue performance

A monologue performance needs fewer performers than a full production, but the audience still depends on a complete technical and front-of-house setup. Plan seating, a stage area, one reliable microphone setup, lighting, power connections and a simple reception service. Drinks, coffee and snacks are easy to underestimate, especially when guests arrive early. Use this shopping list alongside your venue checks so missing cables, serving items or backstage basics are found before the technical rehearsal.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Chairsqty 90
Stage sections
Acting chair
Side tablesqty 3
Reception desk
Coat racksqty 2
Dressing room chairqty 2

Tableware

Glassesqty 100
Coffee cupsqty 30
Platesqty 30
Teaspoonsqty 30
Serving plattersqty 6

Equipment

Microphone
Microphone stand
Speakerqty 2
Mixer
Laptop
HDMI cableqty 2
Extension cordsqty 6
Power stripsqty 4

Lighting

LED spotlightsqty 4
Work lightsqty 2

Decorations

Black Backdrop Fabricqty 2
Poster framesqty 4
Directional signsqty 6
Clothes hangersqty 100

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Coffee maker
Water jugsqty 4
Coolersqty 3

Cleaning

Broomqty 2
Trash binsqty 4
Mop set
Cleaning clothsqty 12

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Tea assortment - 2 boxes
- Sugar - 1 kilo
- Milk - 6 liters
- Oat milk - 2 liter
- Spa Blauw - 8 bottles
- Sparkling water - 4 bottles
- Cola - 4 bottles
- Cola Zero - 4 bottles
- Orange juice - 4 liters
- Apple juice - 3 liters
- Lemons - 8 pieces
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Stirrers - 100 pieces
- Paper napkins - 200 pieces
- Mini sandwiches - 100 pieces
- Hummus - 3 tubs
- Cucumber - 6 pieces
- Cherry tomatoes - 2 kilos
- Grapes - 3 kilos
- Apples - 40 pieces
- Bananas - 25 pieces
- Plain chips - 6 bags
- Paprika chips - 6 bags
- Salted crackers - 4 packs
- Mixed nuts - 2 kilos
- Herb cream cheese - 4 tubs
- Vegan spread - 4 packs
- Wholemeal bread - 6 loaves
- Unsalted butter - 2 packs
- Ketchup - 1 bottle
- Mayonnaise - 1 bottle
- Paper towels - 6 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Trash bags - 2 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Hand soap - 4 bottles
- Toilet freshener - 2 pieces

Tips

Count one chair per registered guest, then add 5–10% spare seating if the venue allows it. Arrange the acting chair, side tables and stage sections before the technical rehearsal rather than during audience arrival.
For a spoken performance, prepare a microphone, stand, speaker and mixer, plus a laptop, HDMI cable, extension cords and power strips. Test every connection at least 2 hours before doors open and keep one tested cable route clear of walkways.
Plan 2–3 drinks per person for the first hour, then adjust for the expected length of the event. Chill drinks in coolers before guests arrive, and set out water jugs, glasses, coffee cups and thermos flasks separately from the performance area.
Set up coffee service with a coffee maker, teaspoons, plates and serving platters before the venue opens. Prepare snacks in portions that can be served without cutlery if the reception area is small.
Bring practical backstage and wayfinding items, not just décor: clothes hangers and a dressing room chair for the performer, plus poster frames and directional signs for the entrance, cloakroom and seating area. Put signs up at least 30 minutes before opening.

Frequently asked questions

What equipment do I need for a monologue performance?: At minimum, plan a microphone, microphone stand, speaker and mixer, along with the required laptop, HDMI cable, extension cords and power strips. Allow at least 2 hours before the audience arrives for a full sound and connection test.
How many chairs do I need for a monologue performance?: Provide one chair for every registered guest and add 5–10% spare chairs where space permits. Keep the acting chair separate from audience seating and place it during stage setup, before the technical rehearsal.
How many drinks should I buy for a monologue performance?: Allow 2–3 drinks per person for the first hour, including water and other refreshments. Chill them in coolers before opening and prepare enough glasses for one full round at the reception area.
When should I prepare the stage and lighting?: Complete the stage, black backdrop fabric, LED spotlights and work lights before the technical rehearsal. Schedule the rehearsal at least 2 hours before doors open so there is time to correct sound, lighting or cable problems.

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