Theatre Conventions

Theatre conventions refer to different established techniques and devices actors and theatre makers use to tell a story. They are drawn from different styles of theatre and can be put together in an infinite number of ways. The list here is not exhaustive - and might grow as the year progresses. But it's a start!.

TRANSFORMATION and SYMBOL

These get a special little subsection as the conventions under transformation and very important to Unit 3 and 4 studies, so we'll be focussing on them this year too!.

Transformation of Character

Changing from one character to another in front of the audience. It can take place using performance skills, props, costume elements or production elements.

Transformation of Space

Changing the setting and dramatic context in front of the audience using different dramatic elements.

Transformation of Object

An actor using performance skills to change a prop from one thing to another in front of the audience.

Symbol

Creating non-literal meaning through drama. It may involve production elements such as costume and props, language or gesture.

Other theatre conventions from different styles.

Soliloquy

When a character is (usually) alone on stage and talking to themselves. This is different to direct audience address in Epic theatre because the audience is present, but not acknowledged in the text.

Asides

Another common Shakespearean device - when a character says a piece of dialogue that the audience hears, but the other characters do not.

Chorus

Found in Ancient Theatre (Greek/Roman), but also in later styles. A group of actors who act as a collective body. They share lines/sentences. They can be involved in dance/movement as a unit. This is the precursor to the chorus line in opera and modern musicals.

Heightened Language

The use of non naturalistic language by characters - may or may not involve poetry, music or sound as a dramatic element to enhance voice. Greek theatre, Shakespeare and many other genres make use of it for many different purposes.

Song

Satire

Placards

Stillness and Silence

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