Parts of
the Theater
the Theater
This backstage area is located to the left and right of a proscenium stage
Wings
castmember who serves as background for action
extra
a piece of wood or pipe from which lights scenery, and curtains are hung
batten
the beginning of the play which explains the who, what, and where of the plot.
exposition
this person is responsible for coordinating and supervising rehearsals and typically acts as the director's right-hand man/woman. May act as a liason between cast and director.
Narrow curtains that hang to the sides of a stage and mask the backstage areas
Legs
Performer, player, thespian
actor
to place a prop on stage before a show so that it is available for actors when needed
plant
a long speech by an actor to another person/group.
monologue
a backstage lounge or waiting room for actors
This front curtain separates the stage from the audience
Grand Drape
a person situated offstage who supplies missed lines during a performance
prompter
this style of theater has the audience seated on all sides of a performance area
theater in the round
the high point in the action in a scene or act.
climax
the tempo or speed at which a scene is played. Crucial in comedy and for setting the tone for an audience.
Pacing
a place where announcements and notices for actors/crew are posted
Call Board
person who finds financial investors, hires the director and production staff, sets the budget, etc. for a play
producer
these short curtains are hung above the stage to mask the lights and battens
teasers
this long speech by one actor is generally showing us the characters' inner thoughts and may not be spoken to any one in particular.
soliloquy
the muscle below the lungs which expands out and down causing air to enter the lungs
diaphragm
This curtain or drop across the back of the stage can be projected onto and can create background for some scenes
Cyclorama or cyc
the name for the combined cast and crew
company
a platform or large set piece on castors (wheels)
wagon
a character's goal
motivation
the money paid by a company/actor to gain permission to put on a production
royalties