Design Elements
The large painted scene or curtain at the back of the stage that helps set the location and mood of the scene
Backdrop
Directions from the actor’s perspective. Stage left is the actor's left side, and stage right is their right side. It helps in coordinating movements and blocking
Stage Left/Stage Right
The conversation between two or more characters in a play. It drives the plot and develops the characters
Dialogue
The person who writes the script of the play, creating the dialogue, characters, and plot
Playwright
The process of creating or choosing costumes that help define characters and their roles in the play, often reflecting the period and personality
Costume Design
Terms referring to areas of the stage. Upstage is towards the back, away from the audience, while downstage is towards the front, closer to the audience
Upstage/Downstage
A long speech delivered by one actor to another person on stage, real or "invisible", often expressing personal thoughts or emotions. It can be a key part of a character's development
Monologue
Acting without a script, where actors create dialogue and actions spontaneously. It helps develop creativity and quick thinking
Improvisation
The planning and arrangement of lights on stage to create mood, highlight actors, and enhance the setting. It includes special effects and color choices
Lighting Design
A planned timetable for practice sessions where actors and crew work on their parts and refine the performance
Rehearsal Schedule
A signal for actors to start speaking or move to the next action. It can be a line in the script, a sound effect, or a physical action
Cue
The technique of speaking loudly and clearly so that everyone in the audience can hear and understand the actor’s lines
Projection
Noises or sounds used in a performance to enhance the atmosphere or action, like a doorbell ringing or thunder
Sound Effects
The precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance. It includes their movements, positions, and interactions on stage
Blocking
A type of monologue where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, usually when they are alone on stage, revealing inner feelings or plans
Soliloquy
The process of creating and developing a character’s personality, traits, and background. This involves how an actor portrays the character's thoughts and feelings
Characterization
Objects used by actors to support their performance and actions, such as books, utensils, or weapons. They help make scenes more realistic
Props
A system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights used to move scenery and props in and out of view on the stage
Fly System
The underlying meaning or unspoken thoughts behind a character’s words. It’s what a character really means or feels, even if it’s not explicitly stated
Subtext
The person who oversees the production, coordinating between actors, directors, and technical staff to ensure the performance runs smoothly
Stage Manager