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 |
|---|---|
| PROMPT | To tell an actor what speech or action is required next of him, especially if he forgets during rehearsal or performance. |
| PROMPT BOOK | Master copy of the script or score, containing all the actor moves and technical cues, used by stage management to control the performance. Sometimes known as the "book." |
| PROMPT DESK | The control center of the show. The desk should contain most of the following: a clock, low level lighting, a flat surface for the prompt script, communication facility to other technical departments, a phone for emergency, rear and front of house calls system and cue light controls. |
| PROMPTER | A person who is charged with prompting. |
| PROP or PROPS | Short for "property." Furnishings, set dressings, and all items large and small which cannot be classified as scenery, electrics or wardrobe. Props handled by actors are known as hand props, props which are kept in an actors costume are known as personal props. |
| Property | Usually shortened to "prop" or "props." See cross-reference link for more information. |
| PROPPING | The task, usually performed by stage management, of finding, borrowing, buying props for the production. |
| PROPS TABLE | Table in convenient offstage area on which properties are prepared prior to a performance and to which they should be returned after use. |
| PROSCENIUM | The opening in the wall that stands between stage and auditorium in some theatres; the picture frame through which the audience sees the play. The "fourth wall." Also proscenium arch. |
| PROSCENIUM STAGE | A stage framed by a proscenium arch. This is the most common type of stage (others include thrust and arena.) |
| PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM or PA SYSTEM | The venue or auditorium sound system. Usually shortened to "PA." |
| PUBLISHER | More accurately, in most cases a publisher/agent. In many cases the publisher is also the representative through which one seeks a license. However, not all publishers are representatives (and not all representative are publishers). For example, Samuel French, Dramatists Play Service, I.E. Clark, and Music Theater International publish scripts and offer licenses. Book publishers such as Heinemann and Smith & Krause publish plays, but do not license productions. However, their books do include licensing information. |
| PULL FROM STOCK | Retrieve scenic units, costumes, props, etc. from storage of a theatre company's stock from past productions for use in an upcoming production. |
| PUNCH LINE or PUNCHLINE | A line of dialogue that carries particular emphasis for dramatic or comic effect. In comedy, a series of lines build one on the other, leading to the final line that brings the big laugh--the punch line. |
| PVC TAPE | Plastic insulating tape used for taping cables to bars and for securing coiled cables. Neater and cheaper than gaffer's tape. Also known as LX tape. |
| PYROTECHNICS or PYRO | Chemical explosive or flammable firework effects with a manual detonation. Usually electrically fired with special designed fail-safe equipment. Types of pyro range from the Theatrical Flash (a flash and a cloud of smoke) to the Maroon (which produces a very loud bang). All pyrotechnics should be used with close reference to local licensing laws, and the manufacturers instructions. Most theatres require a professional, licensed pyrotechnician to be in charge. |
| QUICK STUDY | An actor who can memorize lines quickly, as in "She's a quick study." |
| RACK | A cabinet of standard width (19") into which various components can be bolted. Racks are ideal for touring equipment, are neat, and they allow easy access to the rear and front panels. |
| RADIO CONTROL | System whereby battery-powered practicals / props on stage can be controllable from offstage with no connecting leads. |
| RADIO MIC | Device consisting of a microphone head, transmitter pack with batteries, aerial and mains receiver unit which allows actors and singers to be amplified with no visible means of connection. Almost universally used in musicals where the singers have to be amplified to be heard over the orchestra / band. Used in non-musical shows for sound reinforcement. |