Category: Stage Directions
Theater History
Stage Management
Acting Basics
Theater Terms
100

What does "upstage" mean?

The area farthest from the audience.

100

What type of theater involves improvisation without scripts?  

Improv theater.

100

What is the role of a stage manager?

To oversee the production's logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly.

100

What does "breaking the fourth wall" mean?

When an actor directly addresses the audience.

100

What is a "prop"?

An object used by actors on stage.

200

If an actor is told to move "stage left," whose left is it?

The actor's left when facing the audience.

200

In ancient Greek theater, what was the purpose of the chorus?

To narrate, comment on the action, and provide background.

200

Who is responsible for calling cues during a performance?

The stage manager.

200

What is the term for reading a script for the first time?

Cold reading.

200

Define "monologue."

A long speech by one character.

300

What is the term for the area closest to the audience?

Downstage.

300

Who is considered the "father of modern theater"?

Konstantin Stanislavski.

300

What does a "prompt book" contain?

The script with all cues, blocking, and technical notes.

300

Name one vocal warm-up exercise.

Humming or tongue twisters.

300

What is the "green room" used for?

A waiting area for actors before they go on stage.

400

What does "downstage right" refer to?

The area closest to the audience on the actor’s right side.

400

Name a famous playwright from the Elizabethan era.

William Shakespeare.

400

Name one duty of a backstage crew member.

Moving set pieces or managing props.

400

What does it mean to "upstage" another actor?

To draw attention away from another actor, often by standing behind them.

400

What is a "cue"?

A signal for an actor or crew member to do something.

500

What is the ceiling of the stage called?

flies

500

What is Commedia dell'arte known for?

Improvisational comedy with stock characters and masks

500

What is the purpose of a rehearsal schedule?

To organize practice times and ensure all scenes are rehearsed.

500

What is an "aside" in a play?

A line spoken to the audience that other characters on stage cannot hear.

500

What is the "proscenium arch"?

The arch that frames the stage and separates it from the audience.