Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A genre blending elements of tragedy and comedy, often leaving audiences in emotional or thematic tension.
A character or theme denoting impermanence, often used to explore societal change or alienation in drama.
Transliteration is the process of representing the letters or characters of one writing system using the corresponding letters of another. Unlike translation, it focuses on preserving the original pronunciation rather than meaning. In drama, transliteration can be important for scripts, character names, or titles written in different alphabets, helping actors and audiences pronounce them accurately.
A group of three connected dramatic works that develop a theme or narrative across multiple performances.
A character type marked by competitiveness and urgency, used in plays to generate tension and reveal character flaws.
A deadly disease sometimes referenced in historical or war-themed theatre to highlight societal collapse or suffering.
Describes love or affection not returned or reciprocated, a common theme in classical and romantic drama.
A vignette in drama is a short, self-contained scene or playlet that focuses on a single moment, theme, or character interaction. It does not require a full plot or complex structure, but instead provides a snapshot of life that conveys emotion, humor, or insight. Vignettes can stand alone or be grouped together to form a larger work.
A mystery plot where the audience follows clues to identify the perpetrator, often used in suspenseful or comedic theatre.
Relating to Oscar Wilde’s distinctive wit, satire, and social commentary found in his dramatic and literary works.
In drama, 'will' can refer to a character’s inner drive or determination. Also used in poetic or archaic language as 'shall.'
Wit in theatre refers to the quick, clever use of language to create humor or reveal deeper truths about characters and situations. It often relies on sharp wordplay, irony, or unexpected turns of phrase to keep audiences engaged. Wit is commonly found in comedies and serves both to entertain and to highlight human flaws in a lighthearted way.