Memorization Techniques
Memorization Techniques
Memorization Techniques
By Rylee Vogel
It’s coming up on audition season, so this is the perfect time of year to refresh your audition book and material. However, this can often be a lot of information to take in, and it is important to be fully memorized walking into the room. Here are some memorization tips to help you walk in the room with confidence in your material.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Script
One of the most important (and often underrated) parts of memorization is understanding the full picture. When you are first given the material, take time to read it in its entirety. Knowing the full story will give a general understanding of where the scene(s) will go. This aids in memorization because knowing the plot will remind you what is coming next.
2. Mark Your Script
If possible, it is best to have a physical script/side(s). Highlight your lines and write down any notes on the page. Having everything written out in front of you helps you memorize words and movement, creating a full understanding of the picture in a way that a phone or laptop screen would not.
3. Write it Out (Visual Learning)
If you are a visual learner, a helpful trick is to physically write out your lines while saying
them out loud. For this to be effective, you should go word by word and repeat lines until they are fully memorized. This will help promote a word-for-word memorization that is critical for the stage or screen.
4. Practice with a Friend (Auditory Learning)
If you are an auditory learner, running lines with a friend can be extremely helpful. This friend can read the other parts of the script and stop you when there are gaps in memorization or fumbling over words. This collaboration helps you quickly remember details and gives a feel for what the actual dialogue will be like on stage.
5. Memorize While Blocking (Kinesthetic Learning)
If you learn best by doing, it can be helpful to memorize your lines while doing the physical actions of a scene. If there is no set blocking (due to it being an audition or pre-rehearsals), you can use simple movements to connect the dialogue in your mind. Physically walking the scene can help remind you what lines should be said and also creates a great overall picture of the scene.
6. Combine All Three
Everyone learns differently, so it is important to come up with a method that works best for you. It is completely possible to write out your lines, run them with a friend, and then put it on its feet. Or you can combine any (or all) of these methods to create a robust understanding of the material.
7. Build Your Memory Over Time
It is also important to remember that memorization is a learned skill that can be practiced and perfected. Start frequently memorizing small bits of material, and you will be amazed at how quickly your memory improves.
Memorization does not have to be daunting. Take the time you need and remember to practice in a way that is conducive to you. Practice, and you will be able to walk into that audition or rehearsal room, fully memorized, in no time.
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