How to learn an opera role

1) Study the libretto as if it were a play to obtain a full understanding of the drama. If the libretto is based on a play or book read that too.
2) Learn to speak the lines you will be singing with correct diction. If you do not speak the language work with a diction coach
3) Research the best edition of the score and use that to learn the music accurately.
4) Work with your teachers and coaches and implement their suggestions.
5) Listen to the great historic recordings of the roles in order to understand the implementation of the performance practice.
6) Listen to recordings of singers that have voices similar to your own singing the role because there you will find clues as to how to make the role work for you.
7) If you don't know much about the composer of the opera you will be performing and are not already very experienced performing their music read as much about the composer and  listen to as many recordings of their other compositions as you can so you have a deeper understanding of his /her work and you understand where the opera you are performing fits within the composer’s oevre.

Now you are ready to attend the first rehearsal with the company!