Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
The core of performance, involving verbal and nonverbal methods actors use to convey character, intention, and emotion.
The actor’s ability to maintain focus and remain immersed in the world of the play, essential for truthful performance.
A hybrid performance form that combines the energy and structure of a concert with the narrative, design, and staging elements of theatre. American Utopia exemplifies this style, blending live music with choreography and spoken reflection.
A school offering intensive training in the performing arts, often awarding degrees in acting, music, or dance.
An actor’s ability to sustain character traits, movement, and voice choices throughout a performance or production run.
The synchronization of movement, gesture, and speech required for effective stage presence and ensemble performance.
A crisis is the turning point in a play when the central conflict reaches its highest tension and the characters are forced to make key decisions. It usually occurs just before the climax and shapes how the drama will be resolved. In dramatic structure, the crisis heightens stakes and reveals the true nature of the characters.
A detailed evaluation or analysis of a performance or production, offering constructive feedback.
Casting performers in roles not matching their gender identity, used for artistic effect or inclusivity.
A cue is a signal in theatre that prompts an actor, technician, or musician to carry out a specific action. Cues may be verbal, visual, or technical, such as a line of dialogue, a gesture, or a lighting change. Successful cueing ensures smooth transitions and precise timing throughout a performance.
“from the head”; an aria in which the first part is repeated, the singer being expected to add ornamentation in the repeated section.
A character trait reflecting suave, charming, and courteous demeanor, often seen in comedic or romantic leads.