Basic Theatre Terminology

Front

What is downstage?

Back

the area of the stage closet to the audience

Answer explanation

Downstage refers to the area of the stage closest to the audience. This positioning allows actors to engage more directly with the viewers, enhancing the performance experience.

Front

What is the fourth wall?

Back

the imaginary wall through which the audience views the play

Answer explanation

The fourth wall refers to the imaginary wall through which the audience views the play, creating a separation between the performers and the audience. It allows for a more immersive experience in theater.

Front

What is a house?

Back

another name for the auditorium

Answer explanation

In theatrical terms, a 'house' refers to the auditorium where the audience sits, making 'another name for the auditorium' the correct choice. The other options describe stage equipment, not the audience area.

Front

What is blocking?

Back

the director's planned movement for characters

Answer explanation

Blocking refers to the director's planned movement for characters on stage or in a scene. It is essential for visual storytelling and helps to convey the narrative effectively.

Front

This is the thing actors and dancers walk, dance, tumble, sing and speak on. (HINT - the audience can see you from here!)

Back

Stage

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Stage' because it is the area where actors and dancers perform, allowing the audience to see their actions, such as walking, dancing, and singing.

Front

Finish this sentence: "A structure on the stage that helps to represent a place is called a...?"

Back

Set

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Set' because in theatre, a set refers to the physical environment or backdrop that represents a specific location for the performance, helping to create the scene for the audience.

Front

How can levels be created on a stage?

Back

By using platforms or stairs

Answer explanation

Levels on a stage can be effectively created by using platforms or stairs, which provide physical height differences. This enhances visual interest and allows for dynamic staging, unlike the other options which do not create actual levels.

Front

What is the responsibility of a set designer in a play?

Back

Imagining and planning the scenery for a play

Answer explanation

The set designer is responsible for imagining and planning the scenery for a play, creating the visual environment that supports the story. This role does not involve composing music, writing the script, or planning costumes.

Front

What is the purpose of using different levels on stage?

Back

To create visual interest and depth

Answer explanation

Using different levels on stage enhances visual interest and depth, making the performance more engaging for the audience. This choice helps to create a dynamic and layered visual experience.

Front

opposer or combatant working against the protagonist's or leading characters' goal and creating the main conflict.

Back

Antagonist