Terminology Flashcards
(25 cards)
Amphitheatre
An open circular or oval building with a central space surrounded by tiers of seats for the audience. No roof!
Aside
When a character speaks directly to the audience. The character’s speech cannot be heard by other characters on the stage.
Black Box
This is a performance space with black walls and a flat floor. The simplicity of the space means that it is flexible space for performers.
Chorus
The chorus (in Classical Greek Drama) is a group of performers who comment on the main action of a play. They sing/dance/speak in unison.
Dress Rehearsel
This is often a practise rehearsal, where everything is done as it would be in the final performance. For example, full costume.
Freeze Frame
Where we freeze the action. We might do this to enhance a scene or highlight an important moment.
Soliloquy
When an actor speaks their character’s thoughts aloud to the audience. Other characters on stage cannot hear this.
Duologue
A play or part of a play with speaking roles for two actors.
Melodrama
Melodramas are exaggerated. They often deal with sensational and romantic topics. Typically, stock characters including heroes and villains are used.
Stock Character
A character we recognise from a particular genre of tradition. For example, in fairy tales, we expect the wicked witch.
Scenario
An outline of a hypothesised or project chain of events or plot for a dramatic work. What is happening at the time of the action?
Direct Address
When the actor directly connects with the audience. This is called, ‘breaking the fourth wall’.
Denouement
The solution, clarification, and/or unravelling of the plot of the play. This comes before the resolution.
Exposition
The part of the play that introduces the theme, main characters and current circumstances.
Development
A progression of the plot or conflict in the play.
Hot Seating
This is when you take on the role of the character in the story. You must think, feel and speak like that character.
Monologue
An extended speech by one actor in a play.
Technical Rehearsal
This type of rehearsal focuses on the technological aspects. E.g. lighting, sound, scenery, props etc.
Stage Manager
This is the person who is responsible for the technical details of a theatre production. They will assist the director during the rehearsal, supervise lighting, costuming, setting etc. They have responsibility for the stage and everything backstage during a Performance
Director
This is the person who is responsible for the overall interpretation of a theatre production.
Theatre Manager
Also called a general manager or managing director. They oversee the day-to-day operations and management of a venue.
Wardrobe Master/Mistress
A person responsible for maintaining and sometimes making the costumes in a theatre.
Understudy
Actors who are able to play major roles in the event that the originally cast actors are unable to perform.
Costume Designer
A person who designs costumes for a film, stage production or TV show.
