definitions drama

Playwright: A playwright is a person who writes plays, creating the dialogue, characters, and overall structure of a theatrical performance.

Dramatist: A dramatist is a writer of plays, similar to a playwright. The term can also refer to a broader category of individuals involved in the creation of dramatic works, including playwrights, directors, and other contributors.

Stage Directions: Stage directions are instructions in the script of a play, usually written in italics or brackets, indicating how actors should perform, how the scene should be set, or how movements and actions should occur on stage.

Chorus: In ancient Greek theater, a chorus was a group of performers who commented on the action of the play, often through song, dance, and poetry. The chorus provides additional context, commentary, and reflection on the events taking place on stage.

3 Greek Unities (Action, Time, Place):

• Unity of Action: A principle from ancient Greek theater that suggests a play should have a single, unified plot with no subplots or unrelated events.

• Unity of Time: The rule that the action of the play should take place within a 24-hour period or a very short span of time, emphasizing realism and immediacy.

• Unity of Place: The principle that the play's action should occur in one location or setting, helping to focus the audience's attention and maintain dramatic unity.

Proscenium Stage: A proscenium stage is a traditional stage design where the audience sits in front of the stage, and the action is framed by an arch or a "proscenium arch," creating a clear separation between performers and viewers. This setup often gives a "picture frame" view of the action.

Thrust Stage: A thrust stage is a type of stage that extends into the audience, with the audience seated on three sides of the stage. This arrangement allows for more intimate and immersive experiences for the viewers.

Arena Stage: An arena stage, also known as "theatre-in-the-round," is a stage where the audience surrounds the performance area on all sides. This type of stage promotes an immersive experience and requires creative blocking and set design to engage the audience from multiple angles.

Shakespearean Drama: Shakespearean drama refers to plays written by William Shakespeare, typically characterized by a blend of tragedy, comedy, and historical themes, rich language, complex characters, and the use of iambic pentameter. His works are often performed in Elizabethan or Jacobean theatres, like the Globe Theatre.