Theater Terminology

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Pantomime

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The acting or telling a story without the use of words or props. It makes use of body language and facial expressions to show the emotion usually found in the dialogue.

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Tableaux

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A silent and motionless depiction of a scene created by actors in which they make still images with their bodies to represent a scene.

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Monologue

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A long speech by one character within a film or play. Can be directed towards another character or to oneself (soliloquy).

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Perspective Drawing

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A method of drawing that creates the illusion of depth by bringing the shapes to a vanishing point.

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Spiderweb Method

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A style of perspective drawing that uses precise measurements to draw the set in scale.

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White Model Set

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A physical scaled down representation of a set.

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Tech Week

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Typically, the week leading up to a performance. It is when all technical elements of the show are implemented together to ensure a smooth transition to opening night.

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Dress Rehearsal

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A tech rehearsal in which the costumes are implemented and quick changes practiced.

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Cue to Cue

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A rehearsal where rather than focusing on acting you focus on the transitions to ensure all technical cues are correct.

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Dry Tech

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A tech rehearsal without actors to rehearse the integration of lighting, scenic changes etc.