Secondary 4 Material for Quizlet #1
Evaluation: 15% of Competency 2 (appreciates dramatic works)
Date: __________________________________________________
Vocabulary:
You are responsible for knowing how to both correctly spell and define the following vocabulary
words. Each word will be worth 2 points (1 for sp. 1 for def.). You do NOT need to reproduce the
definitions exactly as they are written here. In other words, you may write them your own way.
However, the meaning must be conveyed in the same vein.
1. Improvisation: to perform without the use of a script and previous rehearsal; to ‘‘go with the
flow’’.
2. Prop: short for ‘property’, any movable object on stage.
3. Aside: a remark that only the audience is meant to hear.
4. Wings: the areas behind the curtains, where actors remain out of the audience’s view
before/after being on stage.
5. Blocking: stage direction, deciding where and when actors will move on stage.
6. Body Language: messages given by the position or movement of the body.
7. Characterization: the process of fully developing a character.
8. Motivation: a driving force behind a given attitude, belief and/or action (intention).
9. Cue: a signal for an actor to perform an action or speak a line, or for a lighting or sound effect
to begin or end.
10. Dialogue: a conversation between 2 or more characters.
Roles of Key Theatre Personnel:
Study the following roles of those who help with the production of a theatrical performance. You
are going to be asked to identify their respective responsibilities in either fill in the blank and/or
multiple choice format. The worth of each question in this section will vary between 2-4 points.
1) Playwright: a person who writes plays professionally.
2) Producer: the person responsible for overseeing all aspects of a theatre production.
* Appoints the creative production team (writer, director, set and costume designers, composer,
choreographer, and possibly even actors).
* Manages the overall monetary functions of a production or venue, raising (and/or providing) the
money needed either through his/her own company or through investors.
* Sets the ticket prices.
3) Director: the person who oversees and moulds the performance of a show.
* Collaborates with the creative team of set, costume and lighting designers, along with actors and
backstage crew to bring his/her vision to life.
*Works closely with actors, telling them where and how to perform.
4) Stage Manager: the person who helps keep the creative team organized throughout the
production process.
* Records all blocking during rehearsals.
* Schedules and runs rehearsals.
* Calls cues for lighting, sound and curtains during the performance via headset radio to members
of the technical crew.
* Is responsible for the timing of the show .
5. Front of House: the part of a performance venue that is open to the public; i.e: the foyer, as
opposed to backstage. People working this area are responsible for ticket sales and /
distribution, refreshments and merchandise.
6. Grip: the person responsible for pulling the curtains open and closed during a performance on
stage.