Memorization Tips

This year is a little bit different than years past because our show has a lot more dialogue in it than usual. The task of memorizing lines might seem scary, but with practice, it becomes very easy! It's like memorizing lyrics to your favorite songs... after a while, it's like second nature! Here are some line memorization tips for you all:

(via Thwaites Theatre Photos @ flickr's creative commons)

1. Read through a set number of lines (maybe 5 lines, or one page at a time) 3 times.
2. Take the lines apart. Know what your character is saying. Once it makes more sense to you, it will come more naturally.
3. For long speeches, start by memorizing the first sentence. Recite the first sentence from memory, and then add the second. Recite the first two sentences from memory, then add the third, and so on.
4. Group the words and thoughts into things you can remember... for example, Peter's line on pg. 31: Wendy, this is a very important rock. It is called Marooner's Rock. When a sailor has done something really dreadful, the captain will bring him to this rock, tie him to this stake and leave him to be marooned.

You might take a look at the word "rock." Notice that it is in every sentence:

• Wendy, this is a very important rock. It is called Marooner's Rock. When a sailor has done something really dreadful, the captain will bring him to this rock, tie him to this stake and leave him to be marooned.

The first two sentences are short and sweet -- easy to remember. For the last sentence, you might try to remember that Marooner's Rock will play a part... "the captain will bring him to this rock ... leave him to be marooned." And you can remember the Sailor will be tied to the Stake.

• Wendy, this is a very important rock. It is called Marooner's Rock. When a sailor has done something really dreadful, the captain will bring him to this rock, tie him to this stake and leave him to be marooned.

Hope this helps. Happy memorizing!