Learning Your Script - Basic Tools

Getting your script for a show is a very exciting part of performing, however, looking at a theatre/tv script for the first time can seem like a whole other world! It's certainly very different to your usual story book or novel. The main difference is the layout and the different terms and language used on a script to help actors and performers bring the script/play to life!

Here are some KEYWORDS you're likely to find on a script and a small breakdown to help you to remember what they mean during your rehearsals;

Lines - The words/dialogue an actor says in the play

Character - A person in the play (this is who the actor will be playing)

Directions/Notes - An instruction for the actor to follow (e.g. - 'walk upstage', 'exit stage', 'enter', 'louder', 'more smiling', etc.)

Scene - Usually indicates that there is now a change to the setting or circumstance (e.g. - different place, different characters)

Monologue - A long speech by one actor

Duologue - A long speech by two actors

Off-Book - To memorize lines without script in hand

Blocking - Notes from director/stage manager to position actor on stage (this can also be stage technicians preparing cameras, lighting, sound, etc.)

Cast - The actors/performers of the show

You can find some fantastic scripts for children to practice and play on amazon (

can get some really great second-hand deals too!) - feel free to take a look, here.

We hope this helps! The best way to learn scripts are to read as many different types of script and practice! Practice! Practice!

Good luck!

Marie