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100

What is the definition of acoustics.  

The science of sound as applied to theaters, relating to how sound travels and reverberates.

100

What is the definition of breaking-up.

Out-of-place laughter by an actor on stage.

100

What is the definition of curtain up.

The start of a performance, whether or not an actual curtain exists in front of the stage.

100

What is the definition of downstage.

The area of the stage closest to the audience.

100

What is the definition of monologue.

A speech used by an actor to demonstrate his or her ability at an audition.

200

What the definition of audition.  

As a noun, the opportunity for an actor to display his or her talents when seeking a role in an upcoming production of a play; as a verb, to give a brief performance at such an occasion.

200

What is the definition of call-back.

A request that an actor return for an additional audition.

200

What is the definition of diaphragm.

The lower part of the lungs, filling the abdominal space, that supports the voice when actors and singers breathe correctly on stage.

200

What is the definition of flop.

A theatrical production that fails to draw an audience, regardless of whether the critics liked it or not.

200

What is the definition of off-book. 

When a actor knows his or her lines and no longer needs to carry the script. 

300

What is the definition of backstage.

The entire area behind the stage of a theater, including dressing rooms.

300

What is the definition of cattle call.

An audition open to anyone, regardless of experience.

300

What is the definition of diction.

Clear, sharp pronunciation of words, especially of consonants.

300

What is the definition of ham.

An actor who gives a very broad or exaggerated performance.

300

What is the definition of offstage.

The area immediately behind or to the sides of the stage area; also used more generally to talk about an actor’s everyday life.

400

What is the definition of blocking. 

Stage movements by actors, including entrances, exits, and any steps taken in any direction across the stage.

400

What is the definition of cold reading.

Delivering a speech or acting a scene at an audition without having read it beforehand.

400

What is the definition of director.

The person charged with staging a play or musical, who coordinates all onstage aspects of the production, including the performances of the actors.

400

What is the definition of mannerisms.

Gestures, facial expressions, and vocal tricks that a particular actor uses again and again in different roles.

400

What is the definition of pace.

The speed at which a scene is played. 

500

What is the definition of body language.

Bodily movements, large or small, which indicate what a person is thinking or feeling.

500

What is the definition of cue.

A line of dialogue, action, or sound, onstage or off, that tells an actor it is time to enter, exit, move across stage, or—most commonly—begin speaking.

500

What is the definition of double-take.

An exaggerated facial response to another actor’s words or actions, usually used for comic effect.

500

What is the definition of mimicry.

An actor’s ability to sound and/or look like someone else, usually a famous person.

500

What is the definition of pausing for effect.

A deliberate pause within or between lines, used by an actor to call special attention to a moment.

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