Scene Schedule

Homework for this week:

1. Work on script analysis ... make sure you really understand your lines as well as the "flow" of the scene. Tweak your objectives & subtext ideas as you think it over.

I moved the information in the previous post about finding objectives to a new page on my English site -- it was too cluttery to post on here. If you never read the post before this one, please read the new page. You can still post comments below on what you read ...

2. Have half your lines memorized by Friday. They don't have to be pretty ... but they should be in your head. And I recommend learning the second half of your lines first!

3. Read through your scene with your partner "on your feet" at least 2x before drama class on Thursday.


Due Dates
full information is posted on the drama page at my English site
please read it .... this is just the outline

for your calendar/ homework notebook:

Right now: Memorize! & Script Analysis
Thurs/Fri Nov 9 & 10: Off-book date
Thurs/Fri Dec 1 & 2: Workshops
Thurs/Fri Dec 8 & 9: Performance!

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Ways to memorize
*Run lines with a partner (ANYBODY who can read will do ... they shouldn't be 'acting' the lines, just reading them)

*Make a recording of the entire scene (all the parts)--find a partner to help you. Listen to the recording A LOT. Do it in mp3 and load it on your iPod .... burn a CD and listen to it on the way to/from school...

*Make a tape with only the other person's lines on it ... with enough space for you to comfortably read your lines in between. Practice w/ the tape.

*Read your lines EVERY day. Even Sundays. ... Have an accountability partner to make sure you actually do it.


**Memorize your lines "flat" -- that is, don't memorize a particular "tone of voice" or "color" the words in any way. Just memorize the WORDS.**

(If you memorize your lines with a particular subtext behind them, you'll have a tough time adjusting the "feel" of the lines later ...)

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Some people have asked me about costumes and props:

Beg, borrow, steal, salvage, scavenge ... do what you can to find the clothes your character needs. Unlike the monologues, which were primarily costumed with imagination, you need to give thought to stage design, props, furniture, and costumes for these scenes. I'll be talking to you about it soon ...

You might be able to share some clothing (hats, cloaks ...) and props (swords, bags, platters ... ) with other groups, so ask around before hauling a truckload to school or giving up hope.


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We've got 6 weeks to pull these scenes together.
Be encouraged ...Most acting companies have only 6 weeks to bring an entire PLAY from first-read to opening night.

You can do it ... and you will do it well. :)