Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A diegetic song is a musical number that exists within the world of the story, where the characters are aware they are singing. It is typically performed as part of the plot, such as at a concert, celebration, or personal expression witnessed by other characters. Unlike non-diegetic songs, it is justified within the narrative and functions as a natural extension of the character’s environment.
Edwardian Musical Comedy was a popular British theatrical genre from the 1890s through the early 1910s that blended operetta traditions with witty dialogue, romance, and lavish spectacle. Pioneered by producer George Edwardes at Daly’s Theatre, these shows featured catchy, accessible songs, glamorous chorus numbers, and light satirical plots that reflected contemporary society. They served as a key bridge between 19th-century operetta and the development of the modern musical.
Escapism in theatre refers to works designed to provide audiences with relief from the difficulties of everyday life. These productions emphasize lighthearted entertainment, often featuring comedy, romance, or lavish spectacle rather than serious social critique. Musicals like No, No, Nanette exemplify escapism by offering carefree fun and joyful music during the turbulent 1920s and again in the nostalgic 1970s revival.
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.
The “Golden Age Musical” refers to Broadway shows written roughly between the 1940s and 1960s, a period known for integrating songs, story, and character development. These musicals often balanced romance, comedy, and social themes with memorable melodies and large ensembles. Classics from this era continue to shape the foundation of modern musical theatre.
An “I Want Song” is a number, usually placed early in a musical, where a main character expresses their deepest desire or ambition. This song sets the character’s journey in motion and gives the audience a clear emotional stake in the story. It has become one of the most recognizable and enduring conventions of musical theatre structur
A musical that uses previously released popular songs to tell a story, such as *Mamma Mia!* or *Jersey Boys*.
A large-scale musical with elaborate staging, global appeal, and strong branding, such as *Les Misérables* or *Phantom*.
A film genre that integrates songs and dance into the narrative, drawing from and influencing stage musicals.
Puppetry is the art of bringing inanimate figures to life through movement, voice, and expression. A puppeteer controls the puppet, often with rods, strings, or direct hand manipulation, to create a believable character for the audience. In theatre, puppetry can be used for children’s stories, fantasy worlds, or even adult-themed productions.
A quartet is a musical or dramatic piece performed by four singers or actors, each contributing a distinct part. The voices or roles are usually balanced so that harmony and interplay between the four performers create a unified effect. Quartets can highlight contrasting perspectives, showcase layered harmonies, or advance the story through multiple viewpoints at once.
A form of theatre with a series of short sketches, songs, and dances, often satirical and lacking a unified narrative.