Theatre Glossary
Whether you're stepping on stage for the first time or picking up a script to read, here's a guide to the terms you'll encounter in the world of theatre.
299 terms
Verbatim Theatre
A form of documentary theatre in which the script is constructed from the exact words spoken by real people, gathered through interviews, transcripts, public inquiries, or other sources. Verbatim theatre makers like Alecky Blythe (London Road) and Moisés Kaufman (The Laramie Project) create dramatic works that give voice to real communities and events.
Genres & StylesVerse and Prose
In classical drama, particularly Shakespeare, the distinction between lines written in verse (structured poetic metre, usually iambic pentameter) and prose (ordinary, unmetred speech). Shakespeare used verse for nobility, formal occasions, and heightened emotion, and prose for common characters, comedy, and madness. Understanding when and why a playwright shifts between verse and prose reveals character, status, and emotional state.
Dramatic StructureWagon
A rolling platform on wheels (castors) used to move large set pieces or entire scenes on and off stage quickly during transitions. Stage wagons allow pre-set scenes to be stored in the wings and rolled into position in seconds, enabling rapid set changes. Some theatres have tracks built into the stage floor to guide wagons along precise paths.
Stagecraft & TechnicalWardrobe
The department responsible for maintaining, cleaning, repairing, and managing all costumes during a production's run. The wardrobe team ensures every costume is ready for each performance, handles quick changes backstage, makes repairs between shows, and launders garments. The term also refers to the physical space where costumes are stored and maintained. In long-running shows, wardrobe is a daily, essential operation.
DesignWarm-Up
Physical and vocal exercises performed by actors before rehearsals or performances to prepare the body and voice for the demands of performing. Physical warm-ups include stretching, movement games, and energy-building exercises. Vocal warm-ups include breathing exercises, resonance work, tongue twisters, and range exercises. Many companies warm up together as a ritual that builds focus, ensemble connection, and readiness.
Acting & PerformanceWest End
London's principal commercial theatre district, centred around Shaftesbury Avenue and Covent Garden. The West End is the UK equivalent of Broadway, hosting major productions in historic theatres, many dating from the 19th century. West End shows range from long-running musicals to limited-run plays featuring star actors. The Olivier Awards (now the Olivier Awards) recognise West End excellence.
Venues & SpacesWet Tech
A technical rehearsal that includes actors performing alongside all technical departments (lighting, sound, set changes) for the first time. Called "wet" in contrast to "dry tech" (without actors), wet tech is where the human and technical elements of the show come together. It's often the most chaotic and time-consuming rehearsal, as adjustments are made in real time.
Stagecraft & TechnicalWhodunnit
A mystery play in which the central question is the identity of a perpetrator—usually a murderer—with the audience following clues alongside the characters to solve the puzzle. The genre thrives on suspense, misdirection, and a satisfying reveal. Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap (the world's longest-running play, in London since 1952) and her The Unexpected Guest are classic theatrical whodunnits.
Genres & StylesWings
The areas on either side of the stage, hidden from the audience's view by curtains (leg curtains) or flats. Actors wait in the wings before entrances, and scenery and props are stored there for quick deployment. "Waiting in the wings" has become a common expression meaning being ready to take over or step into action.
Venues & SpacesWorkshop
In theatre, a developmental production process where a play or musical is rehearsed and performed (often with minimal production values) to test and refine the material before a full production. Workshops may be open to invited audiences and are a crucial step in new play development. The term also applies to training sessions focused on developing specific performance skills.
Industry & BusinessWrangler
A backstage crew member responsible for managing a specific category of production elements during performances—most commonly children (child wrangler), animals (animal wrangler), or quick-change costumes. Child wranglers supervise young performers backstage, ensure they're in position for entrances, and manage welfare requirements. The role requires patience, authority, and excellent organisational skills.
Directing & Production