The Actor's Tools
Projection
The way that an actor uses their volume and clarity to make sure every member of the audience can hear and understand the words that are being sung or spoken
Downstage
The area of the stage closest to the audience
Stage Manager
the person who oversees all of the technical aspects of the show (sets/lighting/sound/curtains, etc) and makes sure that the show runs smoothly. The person that the actors check in with at the beginning of the show and who calls “places” for everyone.
Cheating Out
a way that the actor positions his or her body on stage to face toward the audience even when talking with another actor who may be positioned differently on stage
House
The auditorium area where the audience is seated
Eye Contact
the actor's use of their eyes to connect with the audience
Upstage
the part of of the stage that is farthest away from the audience
Prop
something the actors need to carry around on the stage to make the action seem real
the direction given to tell actors where they need to be or move on stage
Apron
the very front part of the stage (in front of the curtain) where it seems like the actor is almost coming out into the audience
Stage Presence
the actor's ability to keep the attention of the audience with their charm, charisma, energy, expression, and confidence
Centerstage
the middle of the stage
Set
a piece of furniture or or part of the setting that is either built onto the stage or has to be moved on or off of the stage
Motivation
the reason for doing something
Orchestra Pit
the area below and just in front of the stage (close to the audience) where the instrumentalists sit and play the music. They cannot even be seen by the audience, but the actors can see them for cues.
Inflection
Stage Right / Stage Left
The side of the stage when you are the actor standing on the stage facing the audience
Backdrop
a fabric that hangs at the back of the stage and looks like a setting or background for where the action is happening
Cue
the indication that it is time to do or say something on stage
Wing
the part of the “backstage” that is to the left or right of the stage where actors can stand and be ready to enter the stage, but they are not able to be seen by the audience yet
Confidence
being sure of yourself
House Right / House Left
The side of the stage when you are the audience member sitting in the sats facing the stage
Places
the word used by the stage manager to tell all actors and tech crew that it is time to get “ready, set, go” for the rehearsal, Act, or show to start
Cross
to move across the stage
Tech Crew
all the people who work “behind the scenes” on the technical aspects of the show such as sound, lighting, microphones, hair, makeup, costumes, building and managing sets, prop master, painting, etc.