Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A musical or spoken unit that conveys a complete thought, often forming the building blocks of performance rhythm.
The perceived frequency of a sound, fundamental to singing, speech clarity, and musical harmony in performance.
A dramatic work that includes incidental music or songs, but is not classified as a full musical. Music supports mood and storytelling without dominating the narrative.
A musical texture where multiple independent melodies are played simultaneously, enriching the harmonic landscape.
The simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms, often found in world music and modern theatrical scores.
A musical note lasting one beat in common time, foundational to the rhythm in musical theatre and opera scores.
A musical number performed by five singers or characters, common in opera and ensemble moments in musicals.
A genre of popular music that has influenced musical theatre, especially in shows highlighting African-American culture.
A spoken rhythmic vocal style incorporated into modern musicals and theatre to convey energy, storytelling, or protest.
A standardized British accent often taught in actor training for clarity, neutrality, and upper-class character types.
A musical or dramatic work honoring the dead, often evoking mourning or closure in operatic and theatrical contexts.
An actor’s ability to hold emotional or physical energy in performance, contributing to tension, pacing, or character depth.