Conventions in Theatre
The Rules by Which the
Play is Performed
Conventions set up logic
• Conventions set the degree of abstraction the
play will have. Some plays try to replicate
reality, while some do not.
• Conventions should be consistent, as adding
or taking them away half through a show
throws the logic of the play.
Presentational Devices
A deliberate attempt to be “theatrical”
• Use of Narrator or Chorus
• Script written for actors to play multiple roles
• Seeing Actors change costumes and sets in
view of the audience
• Personification
• “Theatre Magic” is shown or obvious
Representational
A definite attempt to look or feel realistic
• Use of the 4th Wall
• Realistic settings and costuming
• Logical sequence of time
• Actors play one role throughout
• “Theatre Magic” is hidden
Conventions used by Playwrights
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Narration
Flash Backs/Forward
Song and Music
Personification
The passage of stage time vs. Plot time
Conventions Used by Directors
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Suggestive Scenery or costuming
Pantomime
Stylized movement
Deliberate tempo of scenes
Split scenes / Conversations
Conventions used by Designers
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Sets that are cut away to reveal the interior
Use of light and sound to replicate reality
Illusion that beyond the set there is more
Creation of set pieces that can become many
things.
• A set piece or costume that is symbolic.
Conventions Used by Actors
Use of the 4th Wall
Endowment
Sense Memory
Direct Audience Address
Aside
Conventions Create Style
• Plays of a type with have conventions that
serve that type – Realistic, Abstract, Era
• Plays can have realistic and abstract
conventions creating their own style.
• Some conventions work with some audiences,
some do not – direction is important.