Elements of Drama

Plot or Storyline Every story must have a Beginning… Middle… End… Don’t forget the conflict !

What’s in a play? Prologue (separate introductory section of a literary work) Monologue (speech by one character to another) Soliloquy (a character, alone, reveals inner thoughts and feelings) Aside (a character’s direct address to the audience, which is not heard by the other characters) Dialogue/lines ( conversation between characters. The words they speak)

Elements of Production Set or Scenery - The background built on stage to establish time and place for the audience. (May be literal or symbolic.)

(change can be real or artistic) Costumes & Make-up These can be used to change an actor’s posture, age, physical build, etc. (change can be real or artistic)

Props Props are small items used on stage to help convey meaning. sunglasses school bag books

Sound & Lights These can be used to establish setting, mood, period; and build plot & character.

Roles An actor or actress’ part in a play, movie, etc. Stock characters in Commedia dell’arte.

Drama Terms Drama…A play. Act…A division of a play (introduction, rising action, climax, etc.). Scene…A division of an act (changing of characters). Stage directions… Instructions the playwright gives to the actors and crew. Dialogue/Lines…The conversation an actor has with other actors or him or herself. Each character has lines to speak in a play. Diction…The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing.

The Elements of Performance character movement vocal expression speaking style listening acting storytelling

The Script (composed of lines) Title Character List Scene Description (& sometimes a set description) Scene or Act # Dialogue All CAPS = Character name Italics = Stage Directions Regular type = spoken words JAMES – (softly) Tracy? (clears throat) Tracy? (louder, getting braver) Tracy? Wake up, I need to tell you something…

Two Basic “Flavors” Comedy Comedies are dramatic works which use humor (wit) to explore various themes and characters. Comedies usually end on a happy note. Tragedy Tragedies treat serious subjects and often focus on the tragic hero’s character. Tragedies usually end with death.