Acting Terms
Theatrical saying meaning “good luck”
Break a leg
The height of an actor’s head as determined by their body position
Level
The degree of loudness or intensity of a voice
Volume
A reading of a script done by actors who have not previously reviewed the play
Cold reading
When an actor comes into the stage area
Enter
The planning and working out of the movements of actors onstage
Blocking
A character’s reason for doing/saying something in a play
Motivation
A short performance by an actor that a director watches to decide if the actor is suitable for the show
Audition
To walk to another position on the stage. The symbol for this stage direction is “X”
Cross
A conversation between 2 or more actors onstage
Dialogue
To turn one’s face/body toward the audience so they can see you better
Cheating out/Opening up
When an actor has memorized the script and no longer needs to reference it during rehearsal
Off-book
To sing loudly, strongly, and clearly so that one’s voice is projected to the back of the auditorium. Usually in chest voice.
Belting
A long speech given by one character
Monologue
One of the high registers of the voice in speaking or singing, above chest voice.
Head voice
An actor moves to balance out the movement of another actor so everyone remains seen
Counter
A rehearsal moving from start to finish without stopping for corrections or notes
Run-through
When an actor ceases to maintain the illusion that they are the character they are playing onstage
Breaking character
The final few rehearsals right before opening night in which the show is run with full technical elements. Full costumes and makeup are worn
Dress rehearsals
The words performers sing in a musical number
Lyrics
A signal, either verbal or physical that indicates something else is to happen
Cue
Non-competitive activities designed to develop acting skills and develop energy
Theater games
Time when an actor/crew member arrives at the theater before a show
Call time
A part of a play during which there is no change in time or place
Scene
An expressive movement of the body or limbs
Gesture