Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
A sacred choral composition used in liturgical settings, often performed in operatic or classical concerts. In theatre, Mass may be used to invoke spirituality or underscore religious context.
A sequence of musical notes that form a recognizable tune, often the emotional or thematic centerpiece of a performance.
Short for mezzo-soprano, a female voice type that sits between soprano and contralto, common in opera and musical theatre.
A comedic form of opera that developed in the 18th century, featuring everyday characters and humorous plots. It contrasts with the more serious opera seria.
A genre of French opera that includes spoken dialogue along with sung arias. Opera comique often features lighter or romantic subjects.
A serious style of opera that focuses on dramatic and mythological themes, typically written in Italian during the Baroque and Classical eras.
A light, often humorous opera with spoken dialogue and romantic plots, bridging opera and musical theatre.
A large-scale musical work for orchestra and voices, typically based on a sacred story and performed without staging. Oratorios are closely related to opera in style.
The process of assigning musical parts to instruments in an ensemble. Orchestration helps shape the sonic texture and emotional tone of a score.
An instrumental introduction to a musical or opera, presenting themes that will appear throughout the production. Overtures set mood and anticipation.
The transitional area in a singer’s vocal range where they shift between registers, particularly from chest to head voice. Mastery of the passaggio is crucial in classical singing.