Theatre Terms
HOW TO SEARCH:
- Enter a word in the "Search Terms and Definitions" box.
- For example, entering the word "curtain" would display all terms whose definition includes that particular word.
- When in doubt, use the simplest version of the term--for example, search for "prop" instead of "props" or "properties," and "Fade" instead of "Cross-Fade."
| Theatre Terms (A-Z) Sort descending | Definition |
|---|---|
| FARCE | A broadly comic dramatic work based on ludicrously improbable events, unsubtle in idea or characterization. Farce is typically fast and funny, with a great deal of action. By its very nature, farce commands an intense outpouring of energy, impeccable timing and a total immersion of the actor into his role |
| FAT | A role, lines, or business offering an actor the opportunity to shine, or show what he/she can do. Thus, "a fat part." |
| FEE | A royalty fee is charged per performance, with the amount depending on whether the producing company is professional or amateur. (See Amateur Rights, Professional Rights.) Some representatives charge a straight fee, with no distinction as to the number of seats or performances. Others charge one fee for the first performance and a lesser amount for each successive performance. Still others charge a fee based on the number of seats in the house, ticket price, number of performance, and company status (professional or amateur). There are three basic fees in licensing a musical: A royalty fee (per performance); a rental fee; and a refundable security deposit. |
| FEED | 1) A power supply to a piece of equipment or installation is termed a "feed". Sound equipment and sensitive computer equipment should have a clean feed - that is, a supply that is free from interference from other equipment. 2) To help another actor get full effect from significant speech or action through the one's own preparatory speech or action. Thus a "feed line." |
| FEEDBACK | A sharp whistle or rumble heard emanating from a sound system. It is caused by a sound being amplified many times. (e.g. a sound is picked up by a microphone and amplified through the speaker. The microphone picks up this amplified sound and it is sent through the system again). Feedback can be avoided by careful microphone positioning, and can be reduced by use of Equalization to reduce the level of the frequency band causing the feedback. Also known as "howl." |
| FIBER OPTIC | A method of directing light down a very thin glass fiber. Fiber Optics are used mostly in communication, but find theatre applications in star cloths which are black backcloths with the ends of optical fibers poked through, to create a mass of pin pricks of light. A large bundle or harness of fibers may be fed from one light source, sometimes with a motorized color or flicker wheel. |
| FIBERGLASS | A combination of a glass mat and a resin which can be formed into a strong shell. Used in prop-making. |
| FIELD | Refers to the spread of light intensity across a beam. Most profile instruments have an adjustable field. A Flat field has an even distribution, a peak field has a "hot spot" in the center of the beam. A flat field is essential when using gobos. |
| FIGHT CALL | In a stage fight or altercation, every punch, kick and jab the audience sees is part of a segment that is carefully choreographed. This choreography is an important part of the overall production design of a show and keeping the actors safe. Fight calls play a big role in this safety, and communication is key. Before every performance of a production with a fight sequence, actors will gather for a fight call to go over the movement, discuss any issues from the previous performance, and go over any notes there might be. Fight calls happen for things as small as a slap, to full-cast brawls with swords and other weapons. While the fight on stage looks as real as possible, the goal is to make sure that the injuries are not. |
| FILL or FILL LIGHT | Light that fills the shadows that key light creates. |
| FILTER | 1) See Color. 2) Electronic device to isolate and redirect specific frequencies in a speaker system. |
| FINALE | The last song, the closing ensemble of a musical production. |
| FINALETTO | Rarely used as a term now, but meaning the last song or closing ensemble of the first act of a musical (to distinguish it from the finale or grand finale. |
| FIRE CURTAIN | Short for fireproof curtain. |
| FIRE EXIT | Particular exit(s) from a building designated by local authority fire officer to be the correct means of escape from a part of the building in case of fire. It is the responsibility of all staff and performers to ensure that all fire exits are kept clear, unlocked and accessible at all times. |
| FIREPROOF CURTAIN | The foremost curtain in the proscenium arch, made of a nonflammable material on a steel frame, used to protect the auditorium if fire breaks out on or behind the stage. |
| FIREPROOFING | Treatment given to fabric, lumber, drapes etc. to retard flammability. Many scenic materials require regular re-application of fireproofing treatment. |
| FIRST NIGHT or FIRST-NIGHT | Opening night. Thus, "first-night audience." |
| FITTING | The trying on of a costume for fit and appearance, in the presence of a costumer. |
| FLASH BOX | A small box containing the socket into which a pyro cartridge is plugged. Also known as a flash pod. |