The art of composing, writing, acting, or producing plays drama

1. Literary elements 2. Technical elements 3. Performance elements Elements of DRAMA

components include: script, plot structures, suspense, etc. literary elements

components include: scenery, sound, lights, make-up, etc. technical elements

components include: acting performance elements

speaking; the mode of expression or delivery of lines verbal expression

proper use of the lungs an diaphragm muscle for maximum capacity and efficiency of breath for speaking. verbal expression: breath support

how well the voice carries to the audience. verbal expression: projection

how an actor uses his or her voice to convey character. verbal expression: vocal expression

selection and pronunciation of words; clarity of speech. verbal expression: diction

no sound made; movement through body language and/or gestures, etc. nonverbal expression

any movement of the actor’s head, shoulder, arm, hand, leg, or foot to convey meaning. nonverbal expression: gestures

physiologically correct posture and use of the body to ensure the maximum capacity and efficiency of breathing and movement. nonverbal expression: body alignment

the use of the face to show emotion and/or feelings. nonverbal expression: facial expression

the path formed by the actor’s movement on stage, usually determined by the director with assistance from the actor and often written down in a script using commonly accepted theatrical symbols. nonverbal expression: character blocking & movement

instructions in the script that tell the actors what to do and where to move on stage; may also provide information about the setting. stage directions

when facing the audience, the area of the stage on the actor’s left, the audience’s right. stage directions: stage left

when facing the audience, the area of the stage on the actor’s right, the audience’s left. stage directions: stage right

the area in the center or middle of the stage. stage directions: center stage

the area on stage farthest from the audience, toward the backstage wall. stage directions: upstage

the area on stage closest to the audience. stage directions: downstage