The Skeleton of Storytelling
The introduction of background information, setting, and characters at the start of a play.
Exposition
Flashback
The character opposing the protagonist, creating conflict.
Antagonist
When characters address the audience directly, breaking the illusion of reality.
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Two referring to the area closest to the audience and the area farthest.
Downstage
Upstage
The conclusion of the play where conflicts are resolved.
Resolution (Denouement)
Using objects, characters, or events to represent larger ideas.
Symbolism
A character who undergoes significant change throughout the play.
Dynamic Character
Contrasting light and dark areas on stage for dramatic effect.
Chiaroscuro
The areas not visible to the audience, where actors prepare or exit.
Offstage
The divisions of a play, with acts serving as larger sections and scenes as smaller subdivisions.
Acts and Scenes
When the audience knows something the characters do not.
Dramatic Irony
A character who remains the same throughout the play.
Static Character
A group of actors creating a "living picture" by holding a pose.
Tableaux Vivants
Tableaux
The sides of the stage, out of view of the audience, where actors wait or props are kept.
Wings
The most intense and emotional part of the play; the turning point.
Climax
A brief comment by a character intended to be heard by the audience but not other characters.
Aside
A character who contrasts with another, often the protagonist, to highlight traits.
Foil
Clothing and accessories used to reflect a character’s personality, status, or time period.
Costuming
Simultaneous action occurring in different locations, often divided by lighting.
Split Stage
A speech or section at the beginning of a play, setting the context.
A concluding speech or section that provides closure.
Prologue
Epilogue
type of monologue where a character speaks to themselves, revealing inner thoughts.
Soliloquy
A character of high status with a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall.
Tragic Hero
Objects used on stage to enhance realism or symbolism.
Props
Instructions in the script for actors and crew, detailing movement, tone, and technical cues.
Stage Directions