No one to throw lines with? Here's a free app for you!

Need to self-tape or record an audition video at home or you need to memorize lines but you don't have someone to throw lines with?

(Photo by Cristina Zaragoza, unsplash.com)

No problem. There are a number of apps available to do the job. But let me walk you through Run Lines developed by Broken Shotgun L.L.C. It's available for free via Google Play and the interface is simple and easy to navigate.

Once you've downloaded the app, run it to take you to the home screen where you can choose the plus (+) sign at the lower right corner and start writing your script, or you can click on the three dots at the upper right corner to import a script.

If you choose to input the script manually, the app will prompt you to add the scenes and the actors' names then write each line individually.

But if you choose to import a script, Run Lines will automatically break it down into scenes and characters. All you need to do is go to a scene and click on the left-most yellow circle to select parts you want the app to read.

You may also click the three dots on the upper right where you can change the app's reading speed rate; select lines you want to toggle with; if you want to highlight parts being read; if you want the app to pause after each line; and edit the script.

When you select the edit script option, it will take you to a new window where you can long press on each line and choose either to change name, change voice, insert lines etc.

The only downside for me is, the voice choices are non-descriptive. It doesn't even indicate if it is a male or female voice so in order to know you will need to select, save and listen to it first.

And since the app is in English, it may not work as great using non-English scripts. Like when you try to use a Filipino script, the app's reading will sound like Tagalog read with an American accent and it will likely mispronounce some words too. But if the accent doesn't bother you, this app is worth definitely worth the try.

Overall, Run Lines is very convenient, useful and easy to navigate that even kid actors can easily figure out how to use it. (Download Run Lines via Google Play)

#ActorsInThePhilippines

Comments

What is a Headshot, a Setcard, and an Acting Reel?

(Photo by NordWood Themes, unsplash.com) “What is a setcard?” is a question I see frequently on the comment sections of casting groups and so I thought it is best to talk about the materials we need to start a career in acting. Besides, before you can meet agents or casting directors face-to-face, these materials are what they will ask you to send them so they can decide if they will call you in for an audition. A. Headshot A Headshot is a close-up photo printed on 8R-size (8 x 10 inches) photo paper with your name placed on the bottom center or bottom corner and your 1-page resume pasted at the back. Things to consider when creating your own headshot: 1. Do not overdo your make-up. The very first thing to remember is that your headshot should look like you so use minimal make-up. You will also be advised to update your headshot if there’s an obvious change in your hairstyle like...

Acting Journal: How to Keep Track of your Progress

A year after going full-time in acting, a practice that I find really helpful was keeping a notebook dedicated to my acting work. I call it my acting journal where I list schedules, methods I plan to use during scenes, script analysis etc. And when I update my resume usually around July or August, it's easier for me to list and select works to include in it. (Photo by Marcos Paolo Prado, unsplash.com) So what do I write in my acting journal? Auditions. Once I book an audition, I write down the project name, date, venue, contact information and any specific instructions given. Then I write down things I need to prepare for the role I will be auditioning for such as character goals, if I need to write a monologue or if I need to breakdown a script that was sent in advance. (More tips on what to do during auditions.) Acting Jobs. When I book a gig, I write down the important dates like rehearsals, workshops, meetings and shooting schedules. I also ta...

Recording Audition Videos at Home

You submitted your setcard to a caster and you received an audition script in your email asking you to send back an audition video. In other countries they refer to this as self-tape. "Wait?! They mean I need to record my own video?" Yes, and hey there's no need to panic. Casters know you're not a professional camera operator but here's a few tips to make your audition video look good. (Photo by Lucas Clarysse, unsplash.com) Choosing a space at home. Look for the best area to shoot in your home where you can be comfortable and avoid distractions. Check the space if it is quiet enough by doing a test recording on the device you are using. Make sure that your voice will not be overlapped by sounds coming from outside such as traffic noises. Also consider finding a plain wall for your background. Shooting near a window can also help in achieving good lighting. Lighting. You can use the natural light from a window by shooting in the morning to make sure the light c...

The DistantPlay Project

Search This Blog