Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
The initial idea that a play develops from. It can be a literal image or an idea.
The information provided by the playwright about the character and situation.
The thing that a play’s character needs or wants to achieve. It can be something physical, like money, or something more abstract, like acceptance or happiness.
Strong dignity and seriousness.
A tragic flaw, identified within Ancient Greek tragedy.
A cultural movement in early twentieth-century America that celebrated and advocated for the art, literature, music, fashion, and theatre of African-American communities.
The central character of a narrative, often with admirable qualities such as morality, courage, and idealism.
Excessive pride, the most common tragic flaw.
A type of verse with ten syllables per line and syllables alternating between unstressed and stressed beats.
The act of inventing or executing action or dialogue in the moment without preparation, often with input and suggestions from audience members.
An event within the plot that introduces the central conflict or obstacle.