Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
The combination of simultaneously sounded musical notes to produce a pleasing effect, essential in vocal and orchestral performance.
A high tenor voice type used in French Baroque opera. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A musical notation indicating the key of a piece, essential for singers and musicians to maintain correct pitch.
A musical term indicating smooth, connected phrasing in vocal or instrumental performance. In theatre, legato singing is essential for creating lyrical flow and emotional continuity in musical passages.
Short for 'legitimate theatre,' referring to traditional stage drama as opposed to musical or commercial performance. The term is also used to describe a classical vocal tone suitable for operatic or legit musical theatre roles.
A recurring musical theme associated with a particular character, idea, or emotion. Frequently used in opera and musical theatre, leitmotifs help reinforce narrative continuity and emotional cues for the audience.
The author of a libretto, responsible for writing the text or script for an opera or musical. Librettists work closely with composers to ensure the dramatic structure and dialogue support the music and storytelling.
The complete text of an opera, musical, or other extended vocal work, including all spoken dialogue and lyrics. The libretto provides the dramatic structure and narrative arc, serving as a guide for both performers and directors to align story and music.
The words of a song in a musical or opera, expressing emotion, story, or character perspective through music.
The writer responsible for crafting the words sung in a musical or opera. Lyricists collaborate closely with composers and librettists to ensure the lyrics support character, mood, and narrative progression.
The words of a song, especially those set to music in a theatrical production such as a musical or opera. Lyrics convey character emotions and advance the plot, requiring poetic and rhythmic sensitivity.