Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
An old word meaning 'to this place,' frequently found in classical English drama. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A waiting area for performers prior to auditioning or performing. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A type of stage flat with framing perpendicular to the surface, used for film and stage. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
The genocide of Jews and others by Nazi Germany, portrayed in theatre to memorialize victims and examine human cruelty.
Prejudice or discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, sometimes explored as a theme in dramatic works. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
The area of the theatre where the audience sits. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A diagram showing the layout of the theatre’s seating and technical systems. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A 20th-century government body whose influence on censorship and blacklisting shaped theatre’s political landscape.
Hubris is excessive pride, arrogance, or self-confidence that leads a character to defy moral or divine law. In classical tragedy, hubris often causes the downfall of rulers or heroes who overestimate their own power. It serves as a warning about the dangers of ignoring limits set by the gods, society, or fate.
A term in classical medicine and drama referring to bodily fluids that affect temperament; also used to mean comedy. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
A revered figure in Islamic history, dramatized in Shi’a ritual theatre, particularly in Ta’zieh performances.
A space used for commemorative performances in Shi’a Islamic traditions, including religious passion plays and Ta’zieh.