Theatre and Playwriting Concepts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to theatre and playwriting as outlined in the lecture notes.

Playwright

A person who writes plays.

Central Action

Defined by the difference between the beginning and the end of the play, expressed as a verb.

Major Dramatic Question (MDQ)

The central question or conflict of the play.

Super Objective

The main concrete goal that the character wants above all else in the play.

Climax

The turning point of the play where the MDQ is answered.

Dialogue

What characters say in the play.

Stage Directions

Instructions in the script detailing what characters do and what the audience sees or hears.

Deus Ex Machina

A sudden solution via divine or unexpected intervention.

Protagonist

The main character in a play.

Antagonist

A character who opposes the protagonist.

Foil

A character that contrasts with the main character.

Confidant/Confidante

A trusted ally or character that the main character confides in.

Raisonneur

A character that expresses the opinions of the author or serves as a voice of reason.

Utilitarian Character

A character with a functional purpose in the play.

Chorus

A group of characters that offers commentary on the action of the play.

Linear Structure

A chronological structure that follows a cause and effect pattern.

Cinematic Structure

A non-linear structure that includes flashbacks.

Groundplan

A visual map of the stage/set used for blocking and actor communication.

Scenic Design

The design of the set and environment for the production.

Costume Design

Creation of costumes to reveal character, time, and place.

Lighting Design

Design of lighting that affects visibility, focus, mood, and suggests time.

Sound Design

Creating sound effects and ambiance for the play.

Props

Items that actors interact with during the performance.