How to Use Audio Equipment to Memorize Lines in a Play

You’ve been cast in a new play, so now you have to memorize lines. If you feel like memorizing lines is akin to catching a greased pig (just about the time you think you have them, they slip away) stop worrying. There are many methods for learning your lines, but one way that doesn’t tie you to the script involves audio equipment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Script
• Recording device
• Computer
• Cassette player or MP3 player
• Headset (optional)

1. Select audio equipment that allows you to record and play back, such as a cassette recorder or a digital recorder that transfers files to a CD or MP3 player. Since you are only using this to memorize your lines, you don’t have to have expensive audio equipment.

2. Read your scenes aloud into the recorder. Use the proper emotion and timing. Read all the lines that are in that scene as well, identifying the other characters, such as, “Mrs. Boyles says, ‘Da da da,’ and I say, ‘Da da da.’” Be sure to add any important information, like special scene movement that might affect the timing of your lines.

3. Upload the recorded file to your computer, if you are using a digital recorder and CD or MP3 player. Transfer the file to your MP3 player or burn it onto a CD. If you are using a cassette recorder, skip this step.

4. Listen to the script and say your lines along with the recording. Do this several times a day. The beauty of this method is that you can practice your lines while you are exercising or driving or doing housework. You can also plug a headset into your player to use while running lines.

5. Continue to practice your lines once you have them memorized. This will keep them solidly in your mind.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a visual learner, you can read along with the script while you recite your lines.
• Use this method if you have to memorize a speech for school.