ACTING FUNDAMENTALS
The two most important concepts for beginning actors.
Projection and Cheating Out
Known as “cheating out.” This is the most common position because it allows the audience to see the actors’ expressions.
One-Quarter
There are this many parts of the stage (onstage).
Nine
Seats the audience on one side of the stage and separates the stage and audience with a proscenium arch
Proscenium
Auditions and casts the parts. Blocks and coaches the actors. Works with designers to create the “vision” of the play
Director
When actors stop being the character and switch back to themselves.
Breaking Character
Actors face away from the audience so only their backs can be seen.
Ex: When a character is “hiding,” takes a moment to “think,” or is about to reveal something
Full Back
Right and left are determined from the whose perspective
The Actor's
A theatrical stage that is surrounded on all sides by the audience
Arena or Theatre-in-the-Round
Creates and teaches the dance numbers.
Choreographer
The art and process of creating a character.
Characterization
The actor faces either the back right or back left corner (least common)
Three-Quarter
The backstage areas on both sides of the stage, unseen by the audience.
Wings
A stage that extends into the audience on three sides and is connected to the backstage area by its upstage end
Thrust
Creates the visuals for lighting, special effects, spotlights & sometimes video screens for a play
Lighting Designer
The character’s mannerisms.
Physicality
Moving from one part of the stage to another.
Cross
The area behind the stage, used to travel from one side to the other unseen by the audience.
Crossover
A simple performance space, typically a square room with black walls and a flat floor
Black Box
Designs the costumes for a play, ensures they’re right for the time period, director’s vision, and practical for the actors.
Costume Designer
The tone of voice that communicates meaning in addition to the words.
Subtext
The directed movements of an actor on stage.
This is the part of the stage farthest from the audience.
Upstage
This is the most common type of stage.
Proscenium
Gathers & creates all props used in a play, instructs actors on their use, and keeps them organized
Prop Master