Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A rapid alternation between two adjacent musical notes, used in vocal or instrumental performance to add ornamentation and expression.
A group of three connected dramatic works that develop a theme or narrative across multiple performances.
A "triple threat" in musical theatre is a performer who excels at acting, singing, and dancing. They have a high level of skill in all three areas, making them versatile and in-demand for many roles. This combination of talents allows them to fully embody characters, deliver compelling songs, and execute choreography.
A three-legged stand used to support cameras or lighting equipment in stage and film production settings.
A company or group of actors who perform together, often touring or working as a repertory ensemble.
A Turkish theatrical technique involving rhythmic speech or percussion, used in traditional storytelling and shadow play.
A nasal vocal quality or accent, often used in acting to portray regional characters or comedic exaggeration.
A two-hander is a play performed by only two actors, with the entire story built around their relationship, dialogue, and interaction. This format often heightens dramatic tension, as the focus is entirely on the dynamics between the two characters. Two-handers are common in intimate theatre settings, where subtle shifts in power and emotion drive the performance.
A classification of actor based on physical and personality traits, often influencing casting decisions.
A character type marked by competitiveness and urgency, used in plays to generate tension and reveal character flaws.
Typecasting is the practice of repeatedly casting an actor in the same kind of role based on their physical appearance, ethnicity, or previous performances. While it can offer steady work, it often limits an actor’s artistic growth and range. Typecasting reinforces narrow expectations of who an actor can play rather than allowing for diverse or unexpected casting choices.
A deadly disease sometimes referenced in historical or war-themed theatre to highlight societal collapse or suffering.