Line Learning Tips From Jennifer

These are some little tips that have helped me, although everyone works differently it might be of some help to you!

1. Before you start the line learning process I would make sure you have settled on the basics of your character in terms your accent and general intentions, mood etc. This is crucial to settle on as early as possible as it is very difficult to relearn lines in an alternative accent or style later down the line.
2. Block the scene first so you know when and where you are moving, or any actions involved. It’s amazing how movements or actions can trigger the memory and cement the line learning process!
3. I record or type out a cue only version of the script with my lines blanked or missed out. The cues are then used in the learning process to prompt what comes next.
4. Break down the line learning into more manageable chunks to avoid being overwhelmed. Perhaps in one sitting you can go over 1 section of the script, an act, 20 pages, 50 cues whatever works for you. It will also give you a better indication of where you are up to in the line learning process.
5. Make sure you fully understand the meaning of what is being said – if you are not sure what it means you will find it much harder to recall. Also if you understand the meaning you can always get the gist and can keep the scene flowing if you are struggling to remember the exact wording of a line
6. The further you get through the rehearsal process you will be aware of the lines that come easy to you and those you struggle with. You can then pay more attention to the areas of concern.
7. It can be helpful to read through your lines with a friend so you can have an immediate response if you have made any errors.
8. I sometimes record myself practising so I can listen back and check over my lines and check for any slips if you are doing an accent which you may not notice until you hear yourself back.
9. I find practicing a little and often over the rehearsal period helps rather than cramming the line learning in the last week before the production! It also reduces the stress levels if you have a good handle on the lines in the weeks leading up to the show.
10. Try and get your book down as soon as possible in the rehearsal period – usually a few weeks in, or after the scenes have been blocked it is good to start getting that book down. A rehearsal prompt can help if mistakes are made.

I hope this has helped and I would love to hear from you with any more techniques that have worked for you!