THEATER TERMS Table Discussion: What do you want to get out of/learn in theatre class this semester?

The movement of actors on the stage TERMS TO KNOW Blocking The movement of actors on the stage *The director creates the blocking. * The actor is responsible for learning and doing the blocking.

Introducing yourself before an in-class performance or an audition. TERMS TO KNOW Slating Introducing yourself before an in-class performance or an audition.

Any item an actor uses/carries on stage. TERMS TO KNOW Props Any item an actor uses/carries on stage.

TERMS TO KNOW Wings The areas off stage where actors enter from. These are usually made of curtains.

TERMS TO KNOW Improvisation Unscripted scenes that are performed without previous preparation.

To remove an object from the stage. TERMS TO KNOW Strike To remove an object from the stage.

TERMS TO KNOW Breaking character Doing actions or saying things that are not appropriate for your character to do. *This can include laughing, dropping an accent, acting like yourself instead of your character.

TERMS TO KNOW Cheat Out Turning your body toward the audience so they can see you.

TERMS TO KNOW Fourth Wall The invisible wall actors put up in front of the audience to help them stay in character.

TERMS TO KNOW Upstaging yourself Turning or blocking yourself from the audience (upstage).

TERMS TO KNOW Prompt book The book used by directors and stage managers that include the script with blocking, technical designs, character breakdowns, and rehearsal schedules.

TERMS TO KNOW Projection Making your voice loud enough for the audience to hear you (not screaming). Diction Pronouncing all of the sounds in your words so the audience can follow what you are saying.

Turning your body to different areas of the stage (front, ¼, ½, back). TERMS TO KNOW Body Position Turning your body to different areas of the stage (front, ¼, ½, back). *Open body positions= welcoming and positive *Closed body positions= shut off and negative

To make up lines that are still in character. TERMS TO KNOW Ad-lib To make up lines that are still in character. *This is usually done to cover a mistake.