Theatre Questions: Ultimate Exam! Trivia Quiz
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
_____ is the person responsible for the direction of the actors in a play, that is, the one who determines such matters as the tempo, interpretation, and the blocking of the actors.
- A.
Stage Manager
- B.
House Manager
- C.
Director
- D.
Producer
Correct Answer
C. DirectorExplanation
The director is the person responsible for the direction of the actors in a play. They determine the tempo, interpretation, and blocking of the actors. The stage manager is responsible for the technical aspects of the production, such as coordinating backstage activities. The house manager is responsible for the front-of-house operations, including audience management. The producer is responsible for the financial and administrative aspects of the production.Rate this question:
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- 2.
______ is the person who designs the scenery.
- A.
Set Designer
- B.
Grip
- C.
House Manager
- D.
Producer
Correct Answer
A. Set DesignerExplanation
A set designer is the person responsible for designing the scenery of a production. They work closely with the director and other members of the production team to create the visual elements of the set, including the placement of furniture, props, and other decorative elements. The set designer's role is crucial in creating the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of a performance or event.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The _____ is prepared to take over an important role should the actor playing the role miss a performance.
- A.
Dresser
- B.
Director
- C.
Understudy
- D.
Producer
Correct Answer
C. UnderstudyExplanation
An understudy is a performer who is prepared to step in and take over a role if the actor playing that role is unable to perform. They are typically trained to know the lines, blocking, and other aspects of the character's performance, and they are ready to step in at a moment's notice. The understudy ensures that the show can go on smoothly even if the main actor is absent, ensuring continuity and minimizing disruptions for the audience.Rate this question:
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- 4.
______ is a smaller division of an act or of the play itself (____ - Act - Play).
- A.
Play
- B.
Act
- C.
Scene
- D.
Set
Correct Answer
C. SceneExplanation
A scene is a smaller division of an act or of the play itself. It represents a specific time and place within the larger context of the play. Scenes often involve a change in location, characters, or events, and they help to advance the plot and develop the story.Rate this question:
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- 5.
_______ is the goal a character has in a particular scene or play; the need or want; the intention.
- A.
Business
- B.
Subplot
- C.
Role
- D.
Objective
Correct Answer
D. ObjectiveExplanation
The term "objective" refers to the goal or intention that a character has in a specific scene or play. It represents the character's need or want, which drives their actions and motivations. In acting, understanding and portraying the character's objective is crucial for creating a believable performance. It helps the actor to fully embody the character and engage with the scene or play effectively.Rate this question:
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- 6.
_____ is the area between the front edge of the stage and the first row of audience seats where the orchestra can play music during a musical.
- A.
Apron
- B.
Pit
- C.
Proscenium
- D.
Wing
Correct Answer
B. PitExplanation
The correct answer is "Pit". The pit is the area between the front edge of the stage and the first row of audience seats where the orchestra can play music during a musical. It is typically located in front of the stage and is often sunken or lowered to ensure that the musicians do not obstruct the audience's view of the performance. The pit provides an ideal location for the orchestra to accompany the actors and singers on stage, allowing for a seamless integration of music and performance.Rate this question:
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- 7.
_____ is any action, exluding blocking, to help make a scene more realistic (eating, cleaning, ironing, putting on makeup...).
- A.
Business
- B.
Objective
- C.
Pace
- D.
Blocking
Correct Answer
A. BusinessExplanation
The correct answer is "Business". In the context of a scene, "business" refers to any action that is performed by an actor to make the scene more realistic. This can include activities such as eating, cleaning, ironing, or putting on makeup. Business helps to add depth and authenticity to the scene, making it more believable for the audience.Rate this question:
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- 8.
____ is the person an actor plays in a show. Another term for character, as in, "What ____ are you auditioning for?"
- A.
Conflict
- B.
Intention
- C.
Ham
- D.
Role
Correct Answer
D. RoleExplanation
The term "role" refers to the character that an actor portrays in a show. It is often used interchangeably with the word "character" when discussing auditions or performances.Rate this question:
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- 9.
____ is the created surroundings in which the action of a play takes place.
- A.
Set
- B.
Props
- C.
Conflict
- D.
Character
Correct Answer
A. SetExplanation
The correct answer is "Set". In a play, the set refers to the physical environment or surroundings that are created to represent the location where the action of the play takes place. It includes the scenery, furniture, and other elements that help to create the atmosphere and setting of the play. The set helps to enhance the audience's understanding of the story and provides a visual context for the characters and their actions.Rate this question:
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- 10.
_____ is the character or situation in a play that creates conflict (what gets in the way of the objective of the protagonist).
- A.
Intention
- B.
Scenery
- C.
Obstacle
- D.
Denouement
Correct Answer
C. ObstacleExplanation
In a play, an obstacle refers to a character or situation that creates conflict and hinders the protagonist from achieving their objective. It acts as a barrier or challenge that the main character must overcome in order to progress in the story. The obstacle can take various forms, such as a rival character, a difficult circumstance, or a personal flaw. It adds tension and drama to the plot, driving the narrative forward and highlighting the protagonist's struggle to achieve their goal.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Greek theatre has its beginnings in religous ceremonies to the god ______ (the god of wine and fertility).
- A.
Zeus
- B.
Apollo
- C.
Ra
- D.
Dionysus
Correct Answer
D. DionysusExplanation
Greek theatre originated from religious ceremonies dedicated to the god Dionysus, who was the god of wine and fertility. The festivals held in honor of Dionysus involved music, dance, and dramatic performances, which eventually evolved into the theatrical tradition of ancient Greece. Dionysus was associated with ecstasy, revelry, and the celebration of life, making him a fitting deity for the origins of Greek theatre.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The ________ style stage is the most popular and has an audience on one side, a pit, an apron, and a main drape.
- A.
Proscenium
- B.
Arena
- C.
Thrust
- D.
Black box
Correct Answer
A. ProsceniumExplanation
The correct answer is proscenium. A proscenium stage is the most popular style of stage, characterized by having an audience on one side, a pit, an apron, and a main drape. This type of stage is commonly used in traditional theaters and allows for a clear separation between the performers and the audience.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Romans were the first to use a front _________.
- A.
Apron
- B.
Curtain
- C.
Pit
- D.
Stage
Correct Answer
B. CurtainExplanation
The Romans were the first to use a front curtain. This statement suggests that the Romans were pioneers in using a type of curtain that was positioned at the front of a performance space or stage. This curtain likely served various purposes such as creating a barrier between the performers and the audience, concealing set changes or props, and adding dramatic effect to the performances. The use of a front curtain by the Romans demonstrates their innovation and influence in the field of theatrical production.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A group of two or more actors who hold scripts and act out a scene or piece of literature with a limited range of movement are performing ____________________.
- A.
Oral reading
- B.
Cold reading
- C.
Audition scenes
- D.
Reader's theatre
Correct Answer
D. Reader's theatreExplanation
Reader's theatre is a form of performance where a group of actors hold scripts and act out a scene or piece of literature with a limited range of movement. This form of theatre focuses on the spoken word and the actors rely on their reading skills to convey the emotions and intentions of the characters. It is different from oral reading, which typically involves one person reading aloud, and cold reading, which is reading a script for the first time without prior preparation. Audition scenes refer to specific scenes used during auditions, whereas reader's theatre is a broader term for this type of performance.Rate this question:
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- 15.
"Please _________, Jane. I cannot hear you at the back of the auditiorium."
- A.
Protagonist
- B.
Project
- C.
Proscenium
- D.
Protrude
Correct Answer
B. ProjectExplanation
The correct answer is "project" because in the given sentence, the speaker is asking Jane to speak louder or project her voice. The phrase "I cannot hear you at the back of the auditorium" suggests that the speaker is unable to hear Jane's voice clearly, indicating that she needs to project her voice to be heard.Rate this question:
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- 16.
I can't wait to go to the ______ tonight and see the play!
- A.
Thermometer
- B.
Theeter
- C.
Theatre
- D.
Theetre
Correct Answer
C. TheatreExplanation
The correct answer is "theatre" because it is the correct spelling of the word that refers to a building or venue where plays, movies, or other performances are presented.Rate this question:
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- 17.
"No, don't say that line to the other character's on stage," the director instructed. "It's a(n) ______. It should be said directly out to the audience as if you're sharing a secret or revealing a thought to them."
- A.
Aside
- B.
Improvisation
- C.
Ad-lib
- D.
Cue
Correct Answer
A. AsideExplanation
The correct answer is "aside". In theater, an aside is a line spoken by a character directly to the audience, revealing their thoughts or secrets. The director wants the line to be delivered as an aside, not to the other characters on stage. This allows the audience to feel like they are being included in the character's inner thoughts or emotions.Rate this question:
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- 18.
"Please get with a partner. The two of you will need to find a(n) _____ scene to perform for contest." A scene for 2 actors.
- A.
Trio
- B.
Duet
- C.
Ensemble
- D.
Quartet
Correct Answer
B. DuetExplanation
The correct answer is "duet" because the question is asking for a scene for two actors to perform. A duet refers to a performance or composition involving two performers, usually singers or musicians. Therefore, a duet scene would be the most appropriate choice for the given scenario.Rate this question:
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- 19.
This is a(n) ______ play. All the characters have equal sized roles and stage time. Also a term that means a scene for three or more people.
- A.
Acting
- B.
Actor proof
- C.
Ensemble
- D.
Mystery
Correct Answer
C. EnsembleExplanation
The correct answer is "ensemble." An ensemble play refers to a production where all the characters have equal-sized roles and stage time. It also refers to a scene involving three or more people. In an ensemble play, the focus is on the collective performance rather than individual characters, creating a sense of unity and collaboration among the actors.Rate this question:
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- 20.
I made a ______ backstage for easy access to all the show's props.
- A.
Prop cue
- B.
Prop list
- C.
Prop table
- D.
Prop map
Correct Answer
C. Prop tableExplanation
A prop table is a designated area backstage where all the props for a show are organized and easily accessible. This allows the crew to quickly find and retrieve the necessary props during the performance. It is a common practice in theater productions to have a prop table to ensure smooth transitions and minimize the chances of props being misplaced or forgotten.Rate this question:
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- 21.
"While you are waiting your turn to audition, please wait in the ____ room; the actor's lounge."
- A.
Yellow
- B.
Blue
- C.
Pink
- D.
Green
Correct Answer
D. GreenExplanation
The correct answer is green because it is the only color that is mentioned in the prompt. The sentence states that while waiting to audition, one should wait in the "____ room; the actor's lounge." Since green is the only color option provided, it is the most suitable choice to fill in the blank.Rate this question:
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- 22.
"Be sure to check the _______ for important information about auditions and rehearsal times."
- A.
Callboard
- B.
Posters
- C.
Register
- D.
Calendar
Correct Answer
A. CallboardExplanation
The correct answer is "callboard" because a callboard is a bulletin board where important information about auditions and rehearsal times is typically posted. It serves as a central communication hub for the cast and crew of a production, ensuring that everyone is aware of the necessary details and can stay organized.Rate this question:
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- 23.
"After Friday's performance, I'll need everyone to stay and _____ the show so that the stage can offstage areas are clear for school on Monday." To take down and put away all aspects of a production.
- A.
Strike
- B.
Take down
- C.
Clear
- D.
Distress
Correct Answer
A. StrikeExplanation
The correct answer is "strike". In the context of a performance, "strike" refers to the process of taking down and putting away all aspects of a production, including props, sets, and costumes. This is necessary to clear the stage and offstage areas for school on Monday.Rate this question:
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- 24.
____ is acting out a story without the use of words or props.
- A.
Improvisation
- B.
Commedia dell'arte
- C.
Pantomime
- D.
Oral Reading
Correct Answer
C. PantomimeExplanation
Pantomime is the correct answer because it involves acting out a story without the use of words or props. Pantomime relies on physical gestures, facial expressions, and body language to convey the narrative. It is a form of silent performance art that emphasizes the use of movement and mime to communicate with the audience.Rate this question:
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- 25.
_____ is the Greek person who is credited with being the first actor.
- A.
Dionysus
- B.
Euripedes
- C.
Thespis
- D.
Shakespeare
Correct Answer
C. ThespisExplanation
Thespis is credited with being the first actor in Greek theater. He is known for introducing the concept of an individual actor who would portray a character in a play, rather than having a chorus perform all the roles. Thespis is considered the founder of drama and his innovations laid the foundation for the development of theater as an art form.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What is the correct order of the rehearsal process?
- A.
Dress rehearsal - blocking rehearsal - tech rehearsal
- B.
Tech rehearsal - dress rehearsal - blocking rehearsal
- C.
Blocking rehearsal - tech rehearsal - dress rehearsal
- D.
Blocking rehearsal - dress rehearsal - tech rehearsal
Correct Answer
C. Blocking rehearsal - tech rehearsal - dress rehearsalExplanation
The correct order of the rehearsal process is blocking rehearsal, tech rehearsal, and then dress rehearsal. In a blocking rehearsal, the director and actors work on the movement and positioning on stage. This is followed by a tech rehearsal, where technical aspects such as lighting and sound are added and tested. Finally, the dress rehearsal is the final run-through before the actual performance, where actors wear their costumes and all elements come together.Rate this question:
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- 27.
What is considered to be the United States' version of London's West End theatre district?
- A.
Chicago
- B.
Times Square
- C.
Hollywood Boulevard
- D.
Broadway
Correct Answer
D. BroadwayExplanation
Broadway is considered to be the United States' version of London's West End theatre district. Broadway, located in New York City, is renowned for its world-class theatrical productions and is often referred to as the heart of American theatre. Just like London's West End, Broadway is home to numerous iconic theaters and attracts both local and international audiences. It is a hub for theatrical creativity, showcasing a wide range of plays, musicals, and performances that have made it a cultural landmark in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 28.
In the early 1400's, the Japanese performed a very stylized and graceful form of theatre called ______ Theatre, in which the actors always wore masks.
- A.
Kabuki
- B.
Bunraku
- C.
Noh
- D.
Hanamichi
Correct Answer
C. NohExplanation
Noh Theatre is the correct answer because it is a traditional Japanese theatrical form that originated in the 14th century. Noh Theatre is known for its stylized and graceful performances, and one of its distinctive features is that the actors always wear masks. Kabuki Theatre is another form of Japanese theatre, but it does not involve the use of masks. Bunraku refers to a form of puppet theatre, and Hanamichi is a term used to describe a walkway in Kabuki Theatre.Rate this question:
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- 29.
_____ is the musical tone of your voice, how low or high you speak on a musical scale.
- A.
Tone
- B.
Quality
- C.
Pitch
- D.
Inflection
Correct Answer
C. PitchExplanation
Pitch refers to the musical tone of your voice, indicating how low or high you speak on a musical scale. It is a measure of the frequency of sound vibrations produced by the vocal cords. A higher pitch indicates a higher frequency, resulting in a higher tone, while a lower pitch indicates a lower frequency and a lower tone. Pitch is an important aspect of communication and can convey emotions, intentions, and meanings in spoken language.Rate this question:
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- 30.
_____ is the acting out of a scene or skit with little or no preparation.
- A.
Improvisation
- B.
Pantomime
- C.
Ad-lib
- D.
Oral Reading
Correct Answer
A. ImprovisationExplanation
Improvisation is the correct answer because it refers to the act of performing a scene or skit without any prior preparation or script. It involves making up dialogue, actions, and reactions on the spot. Pantomime, ad-lib, and oral reading do not necessarily imply the absence of preparation, making them incorrect choices for this question.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A GOBO is used ____________________.
- A.
To change your vocal quality when using a microphone.
- B.
To put in front of a lighting instrument to project an image.
- C.
To color a beam of light.
- D.
To arrange an elaborate hair style.
Correct Answer
B. To put in front of a lighting instrument to project an image.Explanation
A GOBO is a device that is used to put in front of a lighting instrument to project an image. It is commonly used in theater, concerts, and other live performances to create different visual effects on stage. By placing a GOBO in front of a light source, it can project patterns, shapes, or even specific images onto a surface, adding depth and interest to the overall lighting design. This allows lighting designers to create a variety of effects and enhance the visual experience for the audience.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The use of ____ means you are changing your pitch, volume, and pace while you speak. The opposite of speaking in a monotone, robotic voice.
- A.
Tone
- B.
Quality
- C.
Pitch
- D.
Inflection
Correct Answer
D. InflectionExplanation
Inflection refers to the variation in pitch, volume, and pace while speaking. It involves adding expressiveness and emphasis to one's voice, as opposed to speaking in a monotone or robotic manner. By using inflection, a speaker can convey different emotions, intentions, and emphasis on certain words or phrases, making their speech more engaging and dynamic.Rate this question:
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- 33.
You _____ character when you say or do something that is inconsistent with the role you (and/or the playwright/director) has created.
- A.
Break
- B.
Create
- C.
Ruin
- D.
Improv
Correct Answer
A. BreakExplanation
When you "break" character, it means that you deviate from the established role or persona that you are supposed to portray. This can happen when you say or do something that is inconsistent with the character's personality, behavior, or the overall vision of the playwright or director. Breaking character can disrupt the flow of a performance and take the audience out of the immersive experience.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A _______ is a special light instrument that is used to put a very strong, bright beam of light on a specific person/s to focus the audience's attention (very often used during musicals to point out the soloists).
- A.
GOBO
- B.
Parcan
- C.
Scoop
- D.
Spot Light
Correct Answer
D. Spot LightExplanation
A spot light is a special light instrument that is used to put a very strong, bright beam of light on a specific person/s to focus the audience's attention. It is commonly used during musicals to highlight soloists and draw attention to specific performers on stage.Rate this question:
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- 35.
______ is a long speech delivered by one character (others may be on stage at the time, or not).
- A.
Monologue
- B.
Dialogue
- C.
Duet
- D.
Soliloquy
Correct Answer
A. MonologueExplanation
A monologue is a long speech delivered by one character, where others may be present on stage or not. In a monologue, the character expresses their thoughts, feelings, or ideas to the audience or themselves. It is a way for the character to communicate their innermost thoughts and emotions, often providing insight into their motivations and actions. Unlike a dialogue or duet, a monologue does not involve a conversation between two or more characters. A soliloquy, on the other hand, is a type of monologue where the character speaks their thoughts aloud, often when they are alone on stage.Rate this question:
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- 36.
_______ is a long speech delivered by one character alone on stage revealing his or her innermost thoughts. Shakespeare made use of this type of speech often in his plays.
- A.
Monologue
- B.
Dialogue
- C.
Duet
- D.
Soliloquy
Correct Answer
D. SoliloquyExplanation
A soliloquy is a long speech delivered by one character alone on stage, where they reveal their innermost thoughts. Shakespeare frequently used this type of speech in his plays. In a soliloquy, the character speaks directly to the audience, providing insight into their emotions, motivations, and intentions. It allows the audience to gain a deeper understanding of the character's inner world and adds dramatic tension to the scene. The other options, monologue, dialogue, and duet, do involve speech but not specifically the revealing of one character's inner thoughts.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The ______ is the main character in a story that the audience idenifies with.
- A.
Role
- B.
Protagonist
- C.
Antagonist
- D.
Character
Correct Answer
B. ProtagonistExplanation
The protagonist is the main character in a story that the audience identifies with. They are usually the hero or central figure who drives the plot forward and faces conflicts or challenges. The audience often sympathizes with the protagonist and follows their journey throughout the narrative. The other options, such as role, antagonist, and character, do not specifically refer to the main character that the audience identifies with.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Stage directions (stage right and left) are decided based on the _____'s point of view.
- A.
Actor
- B.
Director
- C.
Audience
- D.
Producer
Correct Answer
A. ActorExplanation
Stage directions (stage right and left) are decided based on the actor's point of view. The actor's perspective is important in determining stage directions because they need to know where to move and position themselves on stage in relation to the audience. The actor's movements and positioning are crucial in conveying the intended emotions and actions of the character they are portraying. The director, audience, and producer may have input in the overall staging and blocking, but it is ultimately the actor who determines the specific stage directions based on their character's perspective.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Typically when you gesture on stage, you should use your _____ hand.
- A.
Upstage
- B.
Downstage
- C.
Right
- D.
Left
Correct Answer
A. UpstageExplanation
When performing on stage, it is customary to use your upstage hand when gesturing. The term "upstage" refers to the area farthest away from the audience, while "downstage" is the area closest to the audience. By using your upstage hand, you ensure that your gestures are more visible and impactful to the audience. This helps to enhance your performance and engage the viewers effectively.Rate this question:
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- 40.
In order to create meaningful and interesting stage pictures, you should consider all of the following, EXCEPT:
- A.
Levels
- B.
Dimension
- C.
Focus
- D.
Projection
Correct Answer
D. ProjectionExplanation
To create meaningful and interesting stage pictures, one should consider levels, dimension, and focus. Projection, however, is not a factor that directly contributes to the visual composition of stage pictures. Projection typically refers to the use of video or image projections on stage, which may enhance the overall production but does not directly impact the composition of the stage picture itself.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A _____ rehearsal is one in which the actors perform the show from beginning to end without stopping for mistakes.
- A.
Blocking
- B.
Reading
- C.
Run through
- D.
Tech
Correct Answer
C. Run throughExplanation
A run through rehearsal is one in which the actors perform the show from beginning to end without stopping for mistakes. This type of rehearsal allows the actors to practice the entire production without interruptions, helping them to build stamina, improve their timing, and become familiar with the flow of the show. It also allows the director and other production members to observe the overall performance and identify areas that need improvement.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The ______ is a committee of technicians who work behind the scenes of a show doing the props, costumes, scenery, etc.
- A.
Cast
- B.
Designers
- C.
Crew
- D.
Grip
Correct Answer
C. CrewExplanation
The crew is a group of technicians who work behind the scenes of a show, handling various tasks such as props, costumes, scenery, and more. They are responsible for ensuring that everything is in place and functioning smoothly during the production. Unlike the cast or designers who have specific roles and responsibilities, the crew members work collectively to support the overall production process.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The ______ is at the end of a performance when the actors come onstage to acknowledge their appreciation of the audience and to take a bow.
- A.
Denouement
- B.
Curtain call
- C.
Applause
- D.
Final curtain
Correct Answer
B. Curtain callExplanation
The correct answer is "curtain call" because it refers to the moment at the end of a performance when the actors come onstage to acknowledge their appreciation of the audience and take a bow. It is a traditional way of showing gratitude and concluding the show.Rate this question:
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- 44.
______ is the reading aloud of a piece of literature by one person to convey an author's message to an audience with a script in hand and limited movement.
- A.
Oral Reading
- B.
Monologue
- C.
Audition
- D.
Reader's Theatre
Correct Answer
A. Oral ReadingExplanation
Oral Reading is the correct answer because it refers to the act of reading aloud a piece of literature to an audience. This form of reading is typically done by one person, who holds a script in hand and has limited movement. The purpose of oral reading is to convey the author's message to the audience through spoken words and vocal expression. It is commonly used in educational settings or public performances to engage and entertain the listeners.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Most directors have ____________, or tryouts, for actors to show their talent and their ability to play a role for a show.
- A.
Evaluations
- B.
Tryouts
- C.
Auditions
- D.
Meetings
Correct Answer
C. AuditionsExplanation
Most directors have auditions for actors to show their talent and ability to play a role for a show. Auditions are a common practice in the entertainment industry where actors are given the opportunity to showcase their skills and suitability for a particular role. It allows directors to assess the actors' performance, suitability, and potential to bring the character to life on stage or screen. Through auditions, directors can make informed decisions about casting and select the best actors for their production.Rate this question:
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Jun 28, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Feb 27, 2009Quiz Created by
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