Drama Terminology

Articulation

Clear and precise pronunciation of words.

Improvisation

Creating dialogue or action spontaneously, without a script.

Mumbling

Speaking unclearly or too softly on stage.

Neutral Position

A relaxed, balanced standing pose used to begin or reset a performance.

Actor

A performer who portrays a character.

Director

The person responsible for guiding the creative vision of a production.

Ensemble

A group of performers who work together, with no single leading role.

Audience

The people who watch the performance.

Set

The physical surroundings on stage where the action takes place.

Props

Items used on stage by actors (e.g. books, cups).

Costume

Clothing worn by performers to reflect character or setting.

Mask

A face covering used to portray a character, emotion, or style.

Masking

Using objects or set pieces to block parts of the stage from the audience's view.

Staging Features

Elements like lighting, sound, set design, and movement that bring a scene to life.

Blocking

The planned movement and positioning of actors on stage.

Theme

The central idea or message explored in a play.

Setting

The time and place in which the play is set.

Allegory

A story, character or play with a deeper meaning, often moral, political, or spiritual.

Symbols

Objects, characters, or actions that represent larger ideas or concepts.

Stock Character

A stereotypical character easily recognised by their traits (e.g. villain, fool).

Fourth Wall

The imaginary barrier between performers and the audience. Breaking it means speaking directly to the audience.

Farce

A comedic play with exaggerated, absurd, and improbable situations.

Comedy

A humorous play that usually has a cheerful or happy ending.

Tragedy

A serious play that often ends in disaster, sorrow, or loss.

Socio-political Factors

Social and political influences that affect or are reflected in the play's themes or context.

Rehearsal

A practice session where the cast and crew prepare the play before performance.