CHICAGO | The Saint Sebastian Players are inviting Chicago-area actors to compete in the 15th annual Monologue Matchup competition. The fundraiser takes place at 7 p.m. Oct. 29 at St. Bonaventure, 1625 W. Diversey in Chicago.

Each actor participating in the Monologue Matchup will perform a two-minute monologue for a group of judges including representatives from Child's Play Touring Theatre, GroundUp Theatre, House Theatre of Chicago, Remy Bumppo, SSP and Steppenwolf Theatre Company; freelance directors Dale Goulding and Phillip Edward VanLear; casting directors David Murphy and Adam Silver and more. After viewing all the participants, the judges will select a group of finalists, who each will perform a second two-minute monologue.

Judges will select several winners from the finalists, each of whom will receive one of several prize packages, including donated and discounted acting classes, theater tickets, restaurant certificates, a massage, headshots and more. Donors and sponsors include the Acting Studio Chicago, Actors Workshop Theatre, Body Clinic of Chicago, Brian McConkey Photography and Potash Brothers.

For those who attend only to watch, the competition provides an unusual behind-the-scenes look at the audition process. Audience members also will select a People's Choice winner.

To participate in the Monologue Matchup, actors should call (773) 404-7922, ext. 3, to make reservations; registration is by phone only. The fee to participate is $15. The fee for audience members is $12; no reservations are necessary.

For information, call (773) 404-7922 or visit saintsebastianplayers.org.

- THE TIMES