Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A supporting actor who specializes in unusual or eccentric roles.
A stock character that has particular attributes and plays a specific role in the narrative of a show (e.g., funny best friend, romantic lead, etc).
A speaking voice developed by an actor that is inspired by the attributes of the character they are portraying.
The distinctive qualities of a character, including ways of speaking, behaviors, actions, motivations, and moment-to-moment choices in the piece.
Using resonance in the chest, sometimes associated with lower notes.
The sequence of steps and movements in dance, also the orchestrated and rehearsed movements for actors, based on the script.
Chords that build on or include notes that aren't part of the key.
The clear end of the rehearsal, designed to help actors leave intimate moments on the stage.
A musical section that musically and lyrically wraps up a song.
An audition that gives actors only minutes to prepare a presentation from a script or side provided by the casting team.
Elaborate ornamentation of a vocal melody.
Elaborate and decorative flourishes in operatic singing, generally by a soprano.