Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
An old term for tuberculosis, frequently referenced in period dramas to evoke suffering, mortality, or isolation.
The thematic and narrative substance of a theatrical work, including its plot, dialogue, and emotional message.
The circumstances surrounding a play’s setting, themes, or characters, including historical, cultural, and personal factors.
In makeup, the use of light and shadow to define and shape the face, enhancing facial features for stage visibility.
A formal agreement between parties outlining the terms of participation or employment in a theatrical production.
A religious community of women, frequently featured in plays dealing with themes of faith, discipline, or restricted freedom.
A commonly accepted practice in theatre such as soliloquy or stage combat, used to tell stories efficiently and symbolically.
The synchronization of movement, gesture, and speech required for effective stage presence and ensemble performance.
A behavioral strategy characters use to deal with stress or trauma, commonly explored in modern psychological drama.
Legal protection for original works, including scripts, music, and designs, preventing unauthorized reproduction or performance.
A flirtatious female character type used in comedies and dramas to explore gender roles and manipulation.
Corrales de comedias were open-air courtyard theatres popular in Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries, especially during the Spanish Golden Age. They were typically rectangular spaces surrounded by buildings, with a stage at one end and galleries or balconies for the audience. These venues hosted plays, often mixing comedy, drama, and music, and were central to the era’s vibrant theatrical culture.