Design Elements
Staging Elements
Parts of a Script
Other
100

The large painted scene or curtain at the back of the stage that helps set the location and mood of the scene

Backdrop

100

Directions from the actor’s perspective. Stage left is the actor's left side, and stage right is their right side. It helps in coordinating movements and blocking

Stage Left/Stage Right

100

The conversation between two or more characters in a play. It drives the plot and develops the characters

Dialogue

100

The person who writes the script of the play, creating the dialogue, characters, and plot

Playwright

200

The process of creating or choosing costumes that help define characters and their roles in the play, often reflecting the period and personality

Costume Design

200

Terms referring to areas of the stage. Upstage is towards the back, away from the audience, while downstage is towards the front, closer to the audience

Upstage/Downstage

200

A long speech delivered by one actor to another person on stage, real or "invisible", often expressing personal thoughts or emotions. It can be a key part of a character's development

Monologue

200

Acting without a script, where actors create dialogue and actions spontaneously. It helps develop creativity and quick thinking

Improvisation

300

The planning and arrangement of lights on stage to create mood, highlight actors, and enhance the setting. It includes special effects and color choices

Lighting Design

300

A planned timetable for practice sessions where actors and crew work on their parts and refine the performance

Rehearsal Schedule

300

A signal for actors to start speaking or move to the next action. It can be a line in the script, a sound effect, or a physical action

Cue

300

The technique of speaking loudly and clearly so that everyone in the audience can hear and understand the actor’s lines

Projection

400

Noises or sounds used in a performance to enhance the atmosphere or action, like a doorbell ringing or thunder

Sound Effects

400

The precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance. It includes their movements, positions, and interactions on stage

Blocking

400

A type of monologue where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, usually when they are alone on stage, revealing inner feelings or plans

Soliloquy

400

The process of creating and developing a character’s personality, traits, and background. This involves how an actor portrays the character's thoughts and feelings

Characterization

500

Objects used by actors to support their performance and actions, such as books, utensils, or weapons. They help make scenes more realistic

Props

500

A system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights used to move scenery and props in and out of view on the stage

Fly System

500

The underlying meaning or unspoken thoughts behind a character’s words. It’s what a character really means or feels, even if it’s not explicitly stated

Subtext

500

The person who oversees the production, coordinating between actors, directors, and technical staff to ensure the performance runs smoothly

Stage Manager

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