Lee Strasburg Acting Technique : Memory Exercises

Article by Alison Roskopp

Lee Strasberg was inspired by Stanislavski to create “The Method.” The Method is the most used acting technique in America. In fact most actors on screen and on stage were trained using Strasberg’s Method. The objective to this technique is to portray authentic emotions and thoughts in imaginary conditions.

Relaxation is stressed as it helps the actor stay free. Strasberg’s reason for ridding muscles tension is that the actor can enter a greater state of reaction and concentration.

Sense memory exercises are used to help the actor develop concentration needed. Sense memory is the ability of using one’s senses to remember experiences and objects. The actor utilizes all five senses during sense memory exercise.

Next is emotional memory. Emotional memory is recalling past emotional experiences to fuel a needed a emotion for a scene. The actor’s job is to re-create using his or her senses at the time of the experience. Through much practice and skill, a actor can bring on the needed emotion in a matter of seconds with just a memory of a smell or sound.

Characterization exercises trains the actor in making realistic and believable characters. One example is the widely known “animal exercise.” Here the actor will study and watch the animal, then using his or her five senses they try to become that animal. Eventually with practice, the actor then can take what he learned and apply it to whatever role is playing.

Scene work is also a big part of Strasberg’s method, where the actor will ask questions about the character when preparing for a role. Improvising is also highly encouraged so a scene can become more realistic and real for the student. Stanislavski’s technique of action verbs and breaking scenes into units is also heavily used. Strasberg also created additional exercises for specific issues that an actor may have such as, spontaneity or habitual behavior.

Students wishing to get into method acting must learn to lose their inhibitions, as often times work done in these classes feel uncomfortable and may seem crazy. Class starts with an hour of relaxation to relive tension with the use of movement and voice. During these relaxation sessions it’s not unusual for an actor to laugh or cry as they release emotions and tension in the muscles. Then another hour is used for sense memory exercises. Acting students will each have their own assignments that they will work on at the same time as others.

A method acting class may be overwhelming to some students because the exercises can trigger many strong emotional responses. An experienced teacher can help students to be in control of their craft.

Finally, there is a lot of homework that is involved when using Strasburg method. Sense memory is one of the hardest aspects to this type of acting technique. Practice is imperative.