Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
When the actor tries on the costume for size, movement, and function so that the shop supervisor, fitter, and/or designer can make alterations as necessary.
Also known as lighting instruments; any lights used specifically for stage lighting including fresnels, ERS (Source4s), Parcans, plus various LEDs and moving lights.
A type of playing space that can be arranged in many ways to create various environments.
The area above the stage where curtains and set pieces are stored and hidden during a production.
The art of turning foam into usable items.
The creation and recording of sound effects. People who create sound effects are called foley artists, and they recreate everyday sounds in a studio environment for use in theatre, film and radio productions. The term “foley” is sometimes used as a noun to mean any pre-recorded sound effect.
Skin-colored makeup used to even or change skin tone. Special effects makeup might use an unnatural color for foundation.
The imaginary wall between an audience and actors. To “break the fourth wall” means that actors acknowledge that the audience is there.
Heat-resistant plastic filters used to color conventional lights, brands include Rosco, Lee, and GAM.
Metal or glass stencils that can be inserted into lights to create patterns. Gobo refers to where it is inserted into the light - GOes Before Optics (between the lamp and the lens).
The front, often decorative, curtain of a stage.
An oil-based cream makeup used as a foundation or for special effects.