Acting 101: Top tips on memorizing lines

Theater students as well as theater actors have to memorize most of the scripts given to them in order to play their parts effectively. By internalizing the dialogue, actors can be more in tune with their character, helping them perform masterfully. However, memorizing lines is a tedious and difficult process. Depending on the role you play, you might need to memorize 70-80% of the whole script. To help you in this massive undertaking, here are some tips on how to memorize your lines.

One of the best ways to memorize lines is to write and rewrite the lines down by hand. You don’t need to write other characters’ lines, just yours. This repetitive and tedious method lets you focus on your lines.

Another way to help you memorize lines is to run the lines with a partner. But running lines with a friend may not be as effective as doing so with someone with theater experience. That same friend may not know if you are doing something wrong whereas a person with theater experience can act as a coach and holds you accountable for any mistakes.

You can also quiz yourself on the lines you’ve memorized by covering words or even phrases of the line to test your memory. By doing this, you get accustomed to memorizing more and more material and get comfortable reciting them from memory.

When trying to memorize multiple sections of lines, try not to get too worked up. Experts believe that taking a short break from memorizing lines helps. When you take a break, it gives your brain time to process the information it was given. It also helps prevent actors from burning out from stress.

Mike Giuffrida is an LA-based student trying to break into the entertainment industry. He is currently attending acting and film classes in LA. For more interesting articles on entertainment, check out this site.