Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
Farce is a comedic style that emphasizes exaggerated situations, improbable coincidences, mistaken identities, and rapid pacing. It often includes physical humor such as slamming doors, frantic chases, or characters hiding in plain sight. Farce is designed to generate nonstop laughter, often prioritizing chaos and absurdity over realistic storytelling.
A Faustian bargain is a deal in which a person sacrifices moral integrity, values, or even their soul in exchange for power, knowledge, success, or another form of personal gain. The term comes from the German legend of Faust, who sold his soul to the devil for unlimited knowledge and pleasure. In theatre and literature, this concept often explores themes of temptation, ambition, and the consequences of greed. An example is Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, who agrees to feed Audrey II in exchange for fame and love.
A cinematic genre marked by moral ambiguity and visual starkness, influencing theatre with themes of fatalism and anti-heroes.
A dramatic device that transports the narrative to an earlier time to provide background or context.
A literary device in which hints or clues are given about future plot developments, building suspense or dramatic irony.
The structural framework of a dramatic work, including genres like tragedy, comedy, and experimental or hybrid modes.
The imaginary wall separating the audience from the actors onstage, often 'broken' for direct address. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A historical backdrop for plays of the 16th century exploring themes of conflict, identity, and political upheaval.
Dark humor used in the face of death or misfortune, providing ironic detachment or catharsis for both characters and audience.
A category of theatrical work, such as tragedy, comedy, or farce, defined by form, tone, and audience expectations.
Idle talk that fuels character dynamics and conflict, particularly in comedies and societal plays.
A literary and dramatic style emphasizing horror, emotion, and the supernatural. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.