Play structure
Stage Directions
The Stage
Actors and Roles
Mixed bag
100

This is a major division in a play, like a chapter in a book.

What is an Act?

100

Instructions in the script for how actors should move or act.

What are stage directions?

100

The part of the stage furthest from the audience.

What is upstage?

100

A person or role in the play, portrayed by an actor.

What is a character?

100

A speech where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, usually alone.

What is a Soliloquy?

200

A smaller part of an act, marked by changes in location or characters

What is a scene?

200

Words in parentheses in the script providing extra detail for actors.

What is parenthetical?

200

The part of the stage closest to the audience.

What is downstage?

200

A long speech given by one character to other characters or the audience.

What is a monologue?

200

The side areas of the stage where actors wait before entering.

What are the wings?

300

Instructions in the script for when characters enter or leave the stage.

What is Entrance/Exit?

300

The use of lights to highlight actors or create mood on stage.

What is lighting?

300

The area of the stage where the action happens, in front of the curtain.

What is the Proscenium.

300

The signal for an actor to speak or take action.

What is a cue?

300

Practice sessions where actors learn their roles and movements.

What are rehearsals?

400

The written text of the play, including dialogue and stage directions.

What is a script?

400

The planned position and movement of actors as directed in the script.

What is Blocking?

400

The large piece of cloth or scenery at the back of the stage.

What is the backdrop?

400

A reminder given to an actor when they forget a line.

What is a prompt?

400

A tryout for actors to show their skills for a role.

What are auditions?