Ten Tips for Memorizing Lines Efficiently and Getting Off Book
Acting is a passion that requires a great deal of discipline. Learning how to memorize lines is just one of many techniques that every actor must master. While every actor has their own methods for memorization, here are some tried and true methods for getting lines to stick.
Until there is blocking, memorize your lines with physicality. Walk around the room, walk on the stairs. Do a plié, or squats. Bounce a ball. This engages your sight and kinetic energy to memorize, but also aids with anxiety of forgetting your lines. Muscle exertion is key to good memory skills.
Always say your lines out loud. Reading them quietly is only one tiny part of your brain. Verbalize out loud.
When learning a larger paragraph start with the last sentence, Then add the last two sentences together. Until you get back to the top of the paragraph.
If you stumble - don’t ignore and gloss over it. Go back and do that line 4-5 times without stumbling before you continue the paragraph. Rote repeat the line without stumbles.
Run your lines with someone. Running lines with another person is one of the most well-known methods for memorizing lines. As an alternative to having a partner to run lines, use technology. There’s the app Rehearsal Pro. The app allows users to highlight lines in the app, record other characters’ lines, and use it as a teleprompter.
Try writing them by hand. This method works well for long scenes with speeches. Writing lines out by hand forces the mind to connect to the action of writing the lines down and seeing the lines. Actors should focus on writing their lines out only. It helps each performer focus on themself without the distraction of other actors’ lines.
Learn the cue lines. By knowing the cue lines, actors will be more prompt and can deliver their lines in a timely fashion.
Mark your script by beats. Find each beat and draw a line across the page. You can think of the scene as just beats or moments which will allow the lines to come quicker.
Write your cues on an index card. Write the line on the other side. Have someone quiz you. Write your starting word of each line on a post it note and place it around your kitchen.
Finally, memorize the life, not the lines. What exactly are you saying? To who? Where are you? Why are you saying these words now? The faster you learn how to do this the quicker it'll be to memorize lines, even full monologues.
I hope these tips help you get off book sooner and be prepared for your stagings.
Contact me for more acting or singing techniques to guide you on your journey.
