Drama Glossary
Key theatre terms and definitions including related shows.
The controlled use of pitch and tone in speech, often used for dramatic or ritualistic effect. Intoning helps to set the mood or emphasize the importance of dialogue in performance and is often applied in classical or ceremonial theatre traditions.
An actor’s instinctive understanding of character or moment, developed through rehearsal and emotional intelligence.
A form of street theatre where performers act out scenes in public as if real, often to provoke social awareness.
Short for Irish Republican Army, often referenced in plays centered on Irish history, identity, or conflict, especially The Troubles.
A literary device where the intended meaning differs from the literal meaning, often creating contrast or humor. Irony is used in theatre to provoke thought or elicit reactions from the audience by highlighting contradictions in character behavior or plot outcomes.
A condition of separation or loneliness, frequently central to character development in realist or symbolic drama.
Pertaining to the period of King James I’s reign, known for darker, more violent English drama than the Elizabethan era.
An hourglass-shaped Korean drum used in traditional music and theatre, providing rhythmic and ceremonial accompaniment.
An Indonesian island with rich traditions in dance-drama and puppetry, including Wayang Kulit and Wayang Orang.
A musical genre characterized by syncopation and improvisation, frequently integrated into musical theatre for style and rhythm.
A member of the Catholic order known for educational theatre and morality plays during the Counter-Reformation.
Kabuki plays set in historical periods, dramatizing samurai loyalty, honor, and feudal conflict.