Getting to Know You - Prior Knowledge

What is the term for the area of the theatre where the audience sits?

• Stage

• Auditorium

• Backstage

• Wings

Answer explanation

The area of the theatre where the audience sits is called the auditorium. The stage is where performances occur, backstage is behind the scenes, and wings are the sides of the stage.

Which of the following is a style of theatre that focuses on exaggerated characters and situations to provoke laughter?

• Tragedy

• Farce

• Melodrama

• Realism

Answer explanation

Farce is a style of theatre characterized by exaggerated characters and absurd situations, specifically designed to provoke laughter. In contrast, tragedy, melodrama, and realism focus on serious themes and emotions.

In drama, what is the term for the main character in a play or story?

• Antagonist

• Protagonist

• Foil

• Narrator

Answer explanation

In drama, the main character is called the protagonist. This character drives the story forward and faces challenges, unlike the antagonist, who opposes them. A foil is a character that contrasts with the protagonist, and a narrator tells the story.

Who is responsible for the overall visual appearance of a theatre production, including set design, costumes, and lighting?

• Director

• Stage Manager

• Production Designer

• Playwright

Answer explanation

The Production Designer is responsible for the overall visual appearance of a theatre production, which includes set design, costumes, and lighting, making them the correct choice for this question.

Which playwright wrote "Hamlet" and "Macbeth"?

• Christopher Marlowe

• William Shakespeare

• George Bernard Shaw

• Harold Pinter

Answer explanation

William Shakespeare is the playwright who wrote both "Hamlet" and "Macbeth," two of the most famous tragedies in English literature. The other options, Marlowe, Shaw, and Pinter, did not write these works.

Which famous set designer is known for his work on the musical "The Phantom of the Opera"?

• John Napier

• Bob Crowley

• Es Devlin

• David Rockwell

Answer explanation

John Napier is the renowned set designer behind the iconic musical "The Phantom of the Opera," known for its elaborate and atmospheric stage designs, making him the correct choice among the options provided.

Which actor is famous for his role as Jean Valjean in the film adaptation of "Les Misérables"?

• Hugh Jackman

• Russell Crowe

• Eddie Redmayne

• Aaron Tveit

Answer explanation

Hugh Jackman is well-known for his portrayal of Jean Valjean in the 2012 film adaptation of "Les Misérables," showcasing his singing and acting talents in this iconic role.

What is a current trend in theatre that involves the use of digital technology to enhance live performances?

• Method Acting

• Site-Specific Theatre

• Immersive Theatre

• Virtual Reality Theatre

Answer explanation

Virtual Reality Theatre is a current trend that integrates digital technology, allowing audiences to experience performances in immersive environments, enhancing the overall live performance experience.

Which modern theatre technology allows for the creation of complex lighting effects and precise control over lighting cues?

• LED Lighting

• Gas Lighting

• Candle Lighting

• Oil Lamps

Answer explanation

LED Lighting is the modern technology that enables intricate lighting effects and precise control over cues, making it superior to older methods like gas, candle, or oil lamps.

In theatre, what is the term for the person who writes the script for a play?

• Director

• Playwright

• Producer

• Actor

Answer explanation

The term for the person who writes the script for a play is 'Playwright'. They create the dialogue and structure of the play, distinguishing them from the director, producer, and actors who have different roles in theatre.