Stage combat is a type of choreographed fighting used in theater, film, and television to create the appearance of physical conflict without causing harm to the performers. It involves carefully planned and rehearsed movements, including punches, kicks, and weapon fights, designed to look realistic while ensuring safety. Stage combat often requires precise timing and coordination between actors to convincingly portray violent or dramatic encounters. The goal of stage combat is to enhance the storytelling by adding intensity and excitement to scenes involving conflict or action.

What is "stage combat"?

stage combat

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Pepper's ghost is a special effects technique used in theater and entertainment to create the illusion of a ghostly figure or image. It involves placing a piece of glass or acrylic at an angle to reflect an image from a hidden area into the view of the audience. This technique makes the image appear as if it is floating or moving in mid-air, adding a spooky or magical effect to the performance. By making characters or objects seem to appear and disappear mysteriously, Pepper's ghost enhances the dramatic or supernatural elements of the show, creating a captivating visual illusion that enriches the storytelling experience.

What is "Pepper's ghost"?

Pepper's ghost

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Blackface is a practice in which non-Black performers use makeup to darken their skin to caricature or portray Black people. It originated in the 19th century in minstrel shows, where white actors would exaggerate stereotypes of Black people for entertainment, often portraying them in a demeaning and racist manner. Blackface has a long history of being used to spread harmful stereotypes and reinforce racial discrimination. Today, it is widely condemned as offensive and inappropriate, recognizing the deeply hurtful impact it has had on Black communities and its role in continuing racism.

What is "Blackface"?

Blackface

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A theater troupe is a group of actors and other theater professionals who work together to create and perform plays. This group may include directors, writers, stage managers, and designers who collaborate to bring a theatrical production to life. Theater troupes often rehearse together regularly and perform at various venues, such as theaters, schools, or community centers. The members of a theater troupe typically share a common artistic vision or style, and they may focus on performing certain types of plays, whether classical, contemporary, or experimental. The goal of a theater troupe is to produce engaging and memorable performances for their audiences.

What is a "theater troupe"?

theater troupe

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Presentational acting is a style of performance where actors deliberately acknowledge the audience and may even interact with them directly. In this approach, the actors do not try to create an illusion of reality, but rather embrace the theatrical nature of the performance. This style is often more exaggerated and stylized, with actors sometimes addressing the audience, narrating the action, or stepping out of character to comment on the story. The goal of presentational acting is to engage the audience by making them aware that they are watching a performance, often adding layers of meaning or humor to the experience.

What is "presentational acting"?

presentational acting

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Everyman is a medieval morality play that centers on the character Everyman, who represents humanity. The story begins when Death is sent by God to summon Everyman to give an account of his life. Throughout the play, Everyman seeks help from various personified concepts, such as Fellowship, Goods, and Knowledge, to accompany him on his final journey. However, most of them abandon him, and he ultimately learns that only Good Deeds will stay with him in death. The play uses allegory to convey moral lessons about living a righteous life and the inevitability of death, emphasizing the importance of repentance and virtuous behavior.

What is "Everyman"?

Everyman

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A corpse is an actor who disrupts a scene by breaking character, usually due to laughing uncontrollably or forgetting their lines. This interruption often causes the performance to momentarily stop, as the actor struggles to regain composure or recall their lines. The term highlights the difficulty of maintaining the illusion of the performance and can add an element of unpredictability to live theater.

Who is a "corpse"?

corpse

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A coup de theatre is a dramatic or unexpected event in a performance that creates a strong impact on the audience. It often involves a surprising twist or dramatic turn of events that significantly alters the direction of the story or the audience's perception. This theatrical device is used to heighten tension, evoke strong emotions, or shift the narrative in a compelling way. The goal of a coup de theatre is to create a memorable moment that captures the audience's attention and adds depth to the overall performance.

What is a "coup de theatre"?

coup de theatre

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The fourth wall is an imaginary barrier between the actors on stage and the audience. In traditional theater, this wall separates the world of the play from the real world, allowing actors to perform as if they are not aware of the audience watching them. When actors "break the fourth wall," they directly address or interact with the audience, acknowledging their presence and disrupting the illusion of separation. This technique can be used to create a more engaging or self-aware performance, or to highlight the artificial nature of the theatrical experience.

What is the "fourth wall"?

fourth wall

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A try-out is a preliminary audition or performance used to evaluate the potential of a performer. This early stage helps producers, directors, or casting agents assess the potential and effectiveness of the work, allowing them to make adjustments or decisions based on how well it is received.

What is a "try-out"?

try-out

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A sketch is a short, informal performance or scene, often used as part of a larger show or variety program. It typically features a brief comedic or dramatic scenario with a small cast and is designed to entertain or make a point quickly. Sketches can be standalone pieces or part of a series, and they often rely on humor, satire, or clever dialogue to engage the audience. The goal of a sketch is to deliver a concise, impactful performance that captures the audience's attention within a limited time frame.

What is a "sketch"?

sketch

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A two-hander is a play specifically designed to be performed by only two actors. This type of play focuses on the interactions and dynamics between the two characters, often exploring their relationship, conflicts, or personal journeys in depth. The limited cast allows for a more intimate and intense portrayal of the characters and their dialogue, making the interactions between the two actors central to the story. The goal of a two-hander is to create a compelling and engaging experience through the chemistry and performance of just these two individuals.

What is a "two-hander"?

two-hander

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Burlesque is a form of theater known for its humorous and often exaggerated portrayal of various subjects. It combines elements of satire, comedy, and music to entertain audiences with its playful and cheeky style. Traditionally, burlesque features a mix of skits, parodies, and musical numbers, often making fun of societal norms, popular culture, or other theatrical genres. It may also include elements of dance and striptease, presented in a theatrical and comedic manner. The goal of burlesque is to entertain and amuse by blending humor, satire, and performance art in an engaging and often provocative way.

What is "burlesque"?

burlesque

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Community theater refers to local, non-professional theater groups that produce plays and performances for the enjoyment of their community. These productions are typically created by volunteers who act, direct, and work behind the scenes as a hobby, rather than as a profession. Community theater often focuses on involving local talent and providing a platform for artistic expression and cultural enrichment. The goal is to engage the community through accessible and entertaining performances, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared experience among participants and audiences.

What is "community theater"?

community theater

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A curtain call is the moment at the end of a theatrical performance when the actors come back on stage to receive applause from the audience. After the final scene, the curtain rises or the lights come up, and the cast members acknowledge the audience's appreciation by bowing or performing a final gesture. This tradition allows the performers to receive recognition for their work and gives the audience a chance to express their gratitude and enjoyment of the show.

What is a "curtain call"?

curtain call

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Curtain-up is the moment when the curtain rises at the beginning of a theatrical performance, signaling the start of the show. It marks the transition from preparation to the actual performance, as the audience's attention shifts to the stage and the actors begin their roles. This moment sets the stage for the unfolding drama, comedy, or musical, and signifies the official start of the entertainment.

What is "curtain-up"?

curtain-up

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A dress rehearsal is a full run-through of a theatrical performance or live show where all elements, including costumes, makeup, and props, are used as they would be in the actual performance. This final rehearsal allows the cast and crew to practice the entire show in its complete form, ensuring that everything is synchronized and functioning correctly. It helps identify any last-minute issues with timing, technical aspects, or staging, providing an opportunity to make adjustments before the performance is presented to an audience.

What is a "dress rehearsal"?

dress rehearsal

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Scene-shifting is a method used in theater production to signal a change in setting or location within a performance. This technique involves adjusting the stage environment, such as moving set pieces, changing backdrops, or rearranging props, to transition smoothly from one scene to another. It helps create a seamless flow between different parts of the story and ensures that the visual elements of the production match the narrative changes. Scene-shifting is typically planned and rehearsed to be done quickly and efficiently, minimizing interruptions and keeping the audience engaged in the performance.

What is "scene-shifting"?

scene-shifting

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Stagecraft is the skill and expertise involved in writing, designing, and performing a play. It encompasses the ability to create and manage the various elements that contribute to a successful production, including scriptwriting, directing, acting, set design, lighting, and sound. Stagecraft involves understanding how to effectively bring a story to life on stage, combining artistic vision with technical knowledge to enhance the overall theatrical experience.

What is "stagecraft"?

stagecraft

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A stage whisper is a technique used by actors to speak in a way that sounds like a quiet, private conversation, but is still loud enough for the audience to hear. It is used to convey that the character is sharing something confidential or making a comment that other characters on stage are not supposed to overhear. Despite its name, a stage whisper is projected clearly so that the audience can understand it, even though it seems like a secret or personal exchange between characters.

What is a "stage whisper"?

stage whisper

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A blackout in theater refers to the complete extinguishing of all stage lights, creating a sudden darkness on stage. This technique is often used to mark the end of a scene, to create a dramatic pause, or to signal a transition between scenes. The blackout can be brief or last longer, depending on the needs of the production. It helps to focus the audience's attention, change the mood, or set up a new scene without any visual distraction.

What is a "blackout"?

blackout

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Mime is a theatrical technique where performers use body movements, gestures, and facial expressions to convey a story or emotions without using spoken words. This technique relies on physical expression and precise movement to represent objects, actions, or situations. Mime often involves exaggerated and stylized movements to clearly communicate the intended message or narrative. The goal of mime is to create vivid and understandable performances through the art of movement alone, allowing the audience to interpret the story through visual cues and physical actions.

What is "mime"?

mime

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Stanislavski's Method, developed by Konstantin Stanislavski, is an acting technique that focuses on creating realistic and emotionally genuine performances. It encourages actors to deeply understand their characters by exploring their inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations. Key aspects of the method include using personal experiences to evoke emotions, identifying the character's goals and desires, and studying the character's background and circumstances to enhance authenticity. By emphasizing relaxation, concentration, and emotional connection, Stanislavski's Method aims to help actors deliver performances that are both truthful and compelling.

What is "Stanislavski's Method"?

Stanislavski's Method

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The Brechtian technique, created by Bertolt Brecht, is a theatrical approach that aims to encourage audiences to think critically about social and political issues by breaking the illusion of reality on stage. This style, known as Epic Theater, uses techniques such as direct address to the audience, visible stage machinery, and actors stepping out of character to comment on the action. By presenting the story in a non-linear or episodic manner and emphasizing the social and historical context, the Brechtian technique seeks to keep the audience intellectually engaged rather than emotionally absorbed, prompting them to question and reflect on the issues being portrayed.

What is the "Brechtian technique"?

Brechtian technique

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Mask work is a technique in theater performance and training where actors use masks to explore and portray different characters, emotions, and archetypes. By wearing masks, actors can alter their physical appearance and movement, allowing them to embody a range of characters and express various emotions more vividly. This method helps actors break free from their usual self-perceptions and dive into new roles, providing a creative way to study character development and enhance their performances.

What is "mask work"?

mask work

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Broadway refers to the theater district located in New York City, known for its vibrant and high-quality theatrical productions. It encompasses a collection of theaters located along Broadway Street and in the surrounding area, which are renowned for hosting major theatrical performances, including musicals, plays, and revivals. Broadway is considered a leading center for professional theater in the United States, often featuring large-scale productions with significant budgets and high-profile actors.

What is "Broadway"?

Broadway

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A dinner theater is a unique entertainment venue that combines live theatrical performances with a dining experience. Guests can enjoy a meal while watching a live stage production, typically ranging from musicals and comedies to murder mysteries and dramas. These venues often feature a dedicated dining area with tables arranged to provide a clear view of the stage, allowing guests to dine comfortably while being entertained. The menu offerings at dinner theaters can vary widely, from buffet-style meals to multi-course dinners served by waitstaff.

What is a "dinner theater"?

dinner theater

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Off-Broadway refers to theater productions that are performed in venues located outside the main Broadway district in New York City. These theaters are typically smaller and more intimate than Broadway theaters and often feature innovative or experimental works. Off-Broadway productions may include new plays, musicals, or revivals that offer a different style or perspective compared to the large-scale productions found on Broadway. This area of theater is known for its creative and diverse performances, providing opportunities for emerging talent and offering audiences a more varied and unique theatrical experience.

What is "off-Broadway"?

off-Broadway

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Off-off-Broadway refers to theater productions that take place in venues outside both the Broadway and off-Broadway districts in New York City. These performances are often staged in smaller, less conventional spaces such as community centers, warehouses, or intimate black-box theaters. Off-off-Broadway is known for its experimental and creative work, providing a platform for new and innovative theatrical expressions. Productions in this category are typically more budget-conscious and can feature a wide range of performances from emerging playwrights and artists, offering audiences unique and diverse theatrical experiences.

What is "off-off-Broadway"?

off-off-Broadway

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Off West End refers to theater productions that take place in venues outside the main West End district in London. These performances are usually staged in smaller theaters and often feature innovative, experimental, or less commercially-driven work compared to the large-scale productions found in the West End. Off West End theaters provide a platform for new and emerging talent, showcasing a wide range of performances, including new plays, musicals, and adaptations. This area of theater is known for its diverse and creative productions, offering audiences a more intimate and varied theatrical experience.

What is "off West End"?

off West End

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Regional theater refers to professional theater productions that take place outside major theater districts, such as Broadway in New York City or the West End in London. These theaters are located in various cities and towns across a country and often focus on local, regional, or national stories. Regional theater includes a range of performances from new plays and contemporary works to classic productions and musicals. It serves as a platform for regional talent and provides audiences with high-quality theater experiences close to home, contributing to the cultural life of their communities.

What is "regional theater"?

regional theater

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Repertory theater is a style of theater in which a company performs multiple plays or productions on a rotating schedule. This approach allows the same group of actors to perform different roles in various plays over a period of time, often within the same season. In repertory theater, the company rehearses several shows simultaneously and alternates performances, providing audiences with a diverse range of works. This method helps maintain a varied and dynamic schedule of productions, giving both actors and audiences the opportunity to experience a wide range of theatrical styles and stories.

What is "repertory theater"?

repertory theater

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A revue is a type of theatrical production that features a series of short, often humorous sketches, songs, and dances. It typically focuses on current events, trends, or social issues, using satire and parody to entertain the audience. Rather than telling a single continuous story, a revue presents a variety of performances that highlight different themes or topics. This format allows for a lively and varied show, often with a playful or critical look at recent events and cultural phenomena.

What is a "revue"?

revue

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Summer stock theater refers to a seasonal theater that operates during the summer months, usually in a more casual or temporary setting. It typically presents a variety of plays and musicals in a short time frame, often featuring different productions on a rotating schedule. Summer stock theaters offer opportunities for actors, directors, and crew members to work on multiple shows over the course of the season. They often attract local talent and audiences, providing a lively and community-focused theater experience during the summer.

What is "summer stock theater"?

summer stock theater

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Vaudeville is a style of variety theater that was popular from the late 19th to the early 20th century. It features a series of unrelated acts performed one after another, including comedy sketches, musical performances, dance routines, and specialty acts such as magic tricks or acrobatics. Each act is typically short and designed to entertain with a mix of humor, music, and visual effects. Vaudeville was known for its diverse and family-friendly content, making it a popular form of entertainment for audiences seeking a range of performances in a single show.

What is "vaudeville"?

vaudeville

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A workshop production is a type of theatrical performance presented in a simple and informal setting, often with minimal sets, costumes, and props. This approach focuses on the core elements of the play or musical, such as the script and performances, without the full staging and technical aspects of a finished production. The purpose of a workshop production is to test and develop new material, allowing the creative team to make adjustments based on feedback and observations before presenting the work in a more polished form.

What is a "workshop production"?

workshop production

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play

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Dramatis personae is the list of characters in a play or literary work. It is typically found at the beginning of the script and provides the names and brief descriptions of each character. This list helps the audience or readers understand who the characters are and their roles in the story. It serves as a reference to keep track of the various individuals involved in the plot and their relationships with one another.

What is "dramatis personae"?

dramatis personae

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An exit in theater refers to the moment when an actor leaves the stage during a performance. It is a planned departure that is part of the script and can occur for various reasons, such as completing a scene or moving to a different location within the story. The actor's exit is carefully timed to ensure it aligns with the flow of the performance and contributes to the development of the plot.

What is an "exit"?

exit

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The opening refers to the first public performance or screening of a play, musical, movie, or other entertainment. It marks the moment when the work is presented to an audience for the first time, often following previews or rehearsals. This event is significant as it introduces the production to the public and can set the tone for its reception and success.

What is the "opening"?

opening

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Here you will learn some specific English terms related to theater such as "everyman", "fourth wall", and "vaudeville".

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