VCE Theatre Studies

Cohesion

Element of theatre composition: The overall unity and balance of an interpretation or of moments within an interpretation

Motion

Element of theatre composition: The movement, implied movement and/or stillness of actors and/or design features that occur in the space (this may include position, pattern, arrangement, proportion and flow).

Rhythm

Element of theatre composition: The pace, timing and tempo within certain moments or across the interpretation

Emphasis

Element of theatre composition: Aspects of the interpretation are given a particular focus, importance or prominence.

Contrast

Element of theatre composition: Juxtaposition (two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect) of different or opposing aspects or qualities within certain moments in the interpretation.

Variation

Element of theatre composition: Changes to the dynamics of the interpretation, as may be evident in the use and manipulation of tension, conflict, intensity, energy and space (variation may be gradual and may occur in certain moments or across an interpretation

Acting Skills

The skills an actor needs to act, including use of costumes, props, masks, movement, and vocal skills.

Actor-Audience Relationship

The dynamic between the actor and the audience, influenced by the playwright's intentions and the production team's design.

Analyze

To look objectively at how and why events occur in theatre.

Audience Culture

The values and beliefs of the audience when watching a performance.

Blocking

The positioning of an actor on stage during a scene.

Motivation

The driving force or motive behind a character's actions.

Objective

The character's goal or intended outcome in the play.

Trait

Unique personality or physical characteristics of a character.

Status

A character's social standing compared to other characters in the play or society.

Concept

The overarching vision or idea for a performance.

Context

The circumstances surrounding a play, including historical, cultural, social, and political factors.

Dramaturgy

Research and exploration involved in making an interpretation of a play.

Dress Rehearsal

The final rehearsal before a performance, incorporating all production elements.

Variation

Changes to the dynamics of the interpretation, such as tension or energy.

Tension

Dramatic tension that creates audience anticipation for what will happen next.

Conflict

A driving force in storytelling that keeps the audience engaged.

Intensity

The measure of energy within a performance, which can vary in levels.

Gesture

Body movements used by actors to convey emotions and concepts.

Monologue

A medium to long speech delivered uninterrupted by one character.

Plot

The full story of the play, including actions on stage and referenced backstory.

Production Process

The stages involved in creating a performance: planning, development, and presentation.

Production Roles

Different responsibilities within a production, such as acting, directing, and design.

Realise

To take a script and transform it into a performance.

Rehearsal

Technical and dress rehearsals that allow for refinement of the performance.

Safe, Ethical, Inclusive and Sustainable Practices

Guidelines ensuring responsible, fair, and environmentally friendly work in theatre.

Themes

The central ideas and meanings explored in a play.

Voice

The way actors control their vocal attributes to portray characters.

Pre-Modern Theatre

Works from the era of theatre prior to 1945.

Modern Theatre

Plays written from 1945 to the present.

TEAM

A theatrical acronym standing for Tension, Emotion, Atmosphere, and Meaning.