The Language of Acting

Cool Bill
Acting Workshop On-line
69 min readApr 7, 2019

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A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

91 DAY OUT CLAUSE

A contractual agreement that allows the performer to terminate the contract if the performer doesn’t earn a minimum amount of money within 91 days after signing the contract. Do not sign any agent or manager contract that does not contain a similar out clause.

18-TO-PLAY-YOUNGER

An actor who is 18 years or older but who can convincingly portray a younger character.

3 VOUCHER SYSTEM

A way of becoming eligible to join the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) by acquiring a total of three SAG work vouchers. These vouchers are acquired by working as a non-union performer in a SAG contract film.

4-A’S

Associated Actors and Artists of America; parent organization for AFTRA, Equity, SAG, and other performers’ unions.

8 X 10

A photo of the performer, commonly 8" x 10" in dimension, usually black and white, showing just the head and shoulders.

99-SEAT

The Actors Equity Association’s agreement for low-budget theatres with a capacity of no more than 99 audience seats. Equity and non-Equity actors can perform in a production under this contract.

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ABBY SINGER

The second-to-last shot of the day. Named after Abby Singer, a production manager, who would frequently call the last shot of the day, which frequently turned out to not be the last shot of the day.

ABOVE MINIMUM FEE

Fees contracted at rates in excess of the minimum fees and terms provided in a basic agreement.

ABOVE THE TITLE

In an a dvertisement, placement of a performer’s name before the title of the production. Usually only available to big stars.

ABOVE-THE-LINE/BELOW-THE-LINE

Two main catagories of production expenses. Expenses relating to the purchase of rights script and performance rights, salaries for producers, writer, director, and main characters are “above-the-line” expenses. Expenses related to the hiring of crews; procuring studio space, equipment, purchasing and processing film or videotape, and other costs associated with production activities are “below-the-line.”

ABOVE

Toward the back wall of a stage.

ABSURD, THEATRE OF THE

1940s-1960s style of theatre that expressed existentialist philosophy through highly theatrical style. Frequently incorporates non-sensical dialogue and plot used to convey concepts related to human miscommunication and the irrationality of human existance. Noted absurdist playwrites include Samuel Beckett, Eugene Ionesco and Jean Genet.

ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES AWARDS

The Oscars. Annual awards given for excellence in various aspects of motion picture production.

ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES (AMPAS): http

//www.oscars.org Usually referred to as “The Academy”. The sponsoring organization of the Oscars as well as other competitions and services. Publishes the American Players Directory, a widely used reference for the casting community. The directory containing professional actor photos and contact info.

ACT CURTAIN or ACT DROP

A curtain or painted cloth, usually closest to the proscenium, which was closed or opened to signify the beginning or ending of an act or scene. Also called front curtain, main curtain, working curtain, or grand curtain.

ACT

(1) The largest divisions of the sections of a play. A short play is a “One-Act Play”, a play with two sections has two Acts, a play with three sections has two Acts, etc. Acts are further divided into Scenes.
(2) To perform a role in a dramatic production

ACTING AREA

The area of a stage where performance occurs.

ACTING EDITION

A copy of the script which has the stage directions, technical cues, prop lists and costume descriptions from the prompt script of the first production.

ACTION

1) A verbal cue which indicates that the scene is to begin and that the camera is filming.
2) An actor’s movements in the context of a performance
3) The development of the plot of a production.

ACTION, DRAMATIC

Gesture, action or dialogue that advances the plot of a dramatic work.

ACTION, FALLING

Action following the climax; tension is reduced and plot develops toward the conclusion

ACTION, RISING

Action leading up to the climax; tension is increased and plot develops.

ACTOR’S EQUITY ASSOCIATION

Labor union for professional live performance actors.

ACTOR

A person who plays the role of a character. Historically, the term “Actor” refered exclusively to males, but in modern times the term is used for both genders.

AD LIB

Unscripted dialog or action performed with little to no preparation.

AD.

Assistant director.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Recalling actors and crew to film scenes that need to be filmed to correct mistakes or to add additional film footage.

ADR

Automated Dialogue Replacement. Dialogue specially recorded and added to a scene after the scene has been filmed. Also called”looping”.

ADVANCE BAR

Lighting bar positioned just downstage of the proscenium arch. Also known as ANTI-PROSCENIUM.

ADVANCE

Money received before rendering services.

ADVERTISING AGENCY

A company that does artwork and production for advertisements.

AEA

Actors’ Equity Association (Equity) Actor union for live and stage actors.

AESTHETIC VALUES

Light effects, costumes, sets or other elements that create the production’s sense of style and visual appeal.

AFFILIATE

An independent, local broadcast station under contract with a national or regional broadcasting company, for the purpose of broadcasting the national or regional company’s programs.

AFI

American Film Institute. Organization of filmmakers and filmgoers to advance the art of film, television, video and digital media.

AFL-CIO

American Federation of Labor/Congress of Industrial Organizations. Parent organization for various performer unions.

AFM

American Federation of Musicians. Union for musicians and arrangers.

AFTRA

American Federation of TV and radio artists. For performers in radio, vocal recording and soap operas.

AGE RANGE/AGE CATEGORY

Ages that an actor can believably portray.

AGENCY COMMISSION

A percentage of a performer’s earnings that is payed to the agency representing performer.

AGENCY

Refers to model or talent agency or to an advertising agency.Model and talent agencies handle booking work for models or actors. Advertising agencies create and produce advertising for businesses.

AGENT, CASTING

An individual who assists producers with casting.

AGENT, LITERARY

An individual who assists writers to sell their work with publishers and producers.

AGENT, TALENT

An individual, usually licensed, who helps actors get work. Theatrical agents specializes in dramatic television, film and theater. Commercial agents handles TV and radio commercials and voice-overs.

AGENT

A person responsible for the professional business dealings of an actor, director, or other artist (talent). Negotiates contracts on behalf of the talent, submits their talent for roles.

AGMA

American Guild of Musical Artists

AGVA

American Guild of Variety Artists

AIMP

Association of Independent Music Publishers.

AIR CHECK

Recording a program during broadcast for archival or legal purposes.

AIR PLAY

Radio broadcasting.

AISLE

A pathway for easy travel through a seating area.

ALL-AMERICAN LOOK

Middle-American appearance.

ALLARGANDO

Getting broader.

ALLEGRO

Happily. Lightly.

ALLITERATION

The purposeful repetition of sounds, particularly the beginning consonants of words. “She sells sea shell by the seashore”

AMATEUR

Not professional.

AMERICAN DINNER THEATRE INSTITUTE: (ADTI)

A professional organization for Equity-franchised dinner theatres in the USA. Provides news of interest to the theatres and negotiates Equity dinner theatre contracts on behalf of the theatres’.

AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TELEVISION AND RADIO ARTISTS (AFTRA)

For performers in radio, vocal recording and soap operas.

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CINEMATOGRAPHERS (ASC)

Dedicated to advancing the art of cinematography through artistry and technological progress. Publishes “American Cinematographer” magazine.

AMPTP

Alliance Of Motion Picture And Television Producers.

ANAGNORISIS

A character’s self revelation or self discovery, particularly when the revelation initiates a turning point in the action.

ANALOG OR ANALOGUE

adj., Non-digital audio recording and playback technologies

ANAMORPHIC LENS

Camera lens that distorts a wide image to fit on a narrower 35mm frame of film.

ANCHOR

Secure a set piece to the stage floor.

ANDANTE

walking space.

ANGEL

Financial backer of a production.

ANIMATION PERFORMER

Performer hired to voice a role or roles in an animated production.

ANIMATION

Creating the illusion of motion by filming individual frames; each frame presents a small increment in the action. When viewed in real-time, appears to be continuous motion. Art for animation filming can be executed as drawings, 3-dimensional objects or computer generated images.

ANIME

A style of animation that had its roots in Japanese comic book art style.

ANNCR

Announcer.

ANNOUNCER

A performer hired to deliver a message other than a commercial.

ANTAGONIST

Opposes the hero (protaganist) of a drama.

ANTHOLOGY SERIES

a series each episode of which contains a separate complete story or other complete program entity, without a character or characters common to each of the episodes but held together by the same title, trade name or mark or identifying device or personality common to all of the episodes. A continuing host shall not be considered a character common to each of the episodes.

ANTICLIMAX

n. A minor decrease in dramatic tension.

APERTURE

The opening in the front of a camera through which light passes to create the image.

APRON

The frontmost section of a proscenium stage that is closest to the audience.

ARC

The progression of plot throughout a story and how those changes effect the various characters.

ARCHETYPE

An original after which other similar things are patterned.

AREAS

Divided portions of the stage.

ARENA STAGE (THEATRE-IN-THE-ROUND)

An arrangement of performance and audience space in which the audience is seated around most if not all of the performance space.

ARIA

Operatic term denoting a solo number that suspends the dramatic action. Usually reflective in content.

ARISTOTLE

Greek philosopher (384–322 BC) First and most important dramatic theorist of the Western World. His Poetics describes Greek Tragedy and attempts to explain how it moves an audience. Aristotelian terms and principles, such as hubris, peripity, catharsis, are still useful to critics and dramatists.

ART DEPARTMENT: Responsible for achieving the overall “look” of the film as envisioned by the director. Department positions include

production designer, production buyer, special effects supervisor, draftsman, art director, assistant art director, set decorator, set dresser, property master, leadman, swing gang, and property assistant .

ART DIRECTOR

Person who conceives and designs the sets.

ASCAP

American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.

ASIDE

Lines spoken to the audience. By convention, the audience understand that the lines are not heard by the other characters in the scene.

ASL

American Sign Language.

ASM

Assistant Stage Manager.

ASSEMBLY

Part of the editing process in which outtakes are removed from the masters and the remaining takes are placed in broadcast order.

ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR

An assistant to the art director .

ASSISTANT CAMERA

Assistant Camera Operator, First Assistant Cameraman, 1st Assistant Cameraman, 1st Assistant Camera, Assistant Cameraman, Camera Assistant. A camera crew member who assists the camera operator . Reponsible for the care of the camera and preparing dope sheets. May also perform the duties of clapper-loader and/or a focus puller.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

AD, First Assistant Director, 1st Assistant Director. Duties include tracking the progress of the production schedule, and preparing call sheet.

ASSISTANT FILM EDITOR

Assistant Picture Editor, Assistant Sound Editor, Assistant Editor, First Assistant Editor, Second Assistant Editor, Apprentice Editor. Responsible for providing assistance to the editor.

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER

Assistant to the production co-ordinator.

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

Performs numerous functions as delegated by a producer

ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONALE DU FILM D’ANIMATION

ASIFA, International Animation Association.

ASSOCIATION OF FILM COMMISSIONERS INTERNATIONAL

AFCI. Non-profit educational organization to serve the needs of on-location film, television and commercial production.

ASSOCIATION OF HISPANIC ARTS

Organization supporting Hispanic theatre companies with technical assistance, planning and financial management systems, identification of new and up-and-coming Hispanic playwrights and marketing.

ASSOCIATION OF MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCERS

AMPTP

ATA

Association of Talent Agents.

ATMOSPHERE ACTORS

Actors who appear in a scene to help establish the time, place, or mood of a scene. Usually do not have discernable lines. Also known as “extras.”

ATTITUDE

State of mind or emotion that a character brings to the action of a production.

AUDIO

Pertaining to sound or sound technology.

AUDIOBOOK

Sound recording of a dramatic reading of a literary work.

AUDITION

A try out for a film, tv or stage part. Usually conducted by a casting director and/or producer.

AUDITORIUM

Area of a theater seating or accomodating the audience.

AUTHOR

The person entitled to hold a copyright.

AUTOMATIC DIALOGUE REPLACEMENT

ADR, Dialogue Looping, Dialog Looping, Looping. Re-recording of dialogue by actor s in a sound studio during post-production. Used to replace production track of poor quality or to change the delivery or inflection of a line.

AVAILABILITY

(AVAIL) A courtesy extended by a performer or an agent to a producer indicating availability to work a certain job. Avails imply no legal or contractual obligation.

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BACK DROP

a large piece of canvas, usually painted with a scene, suspended behind the rest of the scenery. Also called a drop.

BACK PROJECTION

(Rear Projection) Live action is filmed in front of a screen upon which background action is projected.

BACK STORY

The history and personal relationships of a character before the events written in the script.

BACK TO ONE!

Cue for actors to return to the start of a scene.

BACK-END DEAL

Contract agreement for payment to be made after a project is produced, released, and begins making a profit.

BACK-UP

Actor who is hired to work only if the designated performer can’t perform satisfactorily.

BACKDROP

A painted or plain surface hung from the grid and used to form a set on stage.

BACKGROUND ACTION

Actgion performed in the background of a shot.

BACKGROUND ACTOR

“”extra, atmosphere, non-principal performer who does not have lines.

BACKING FLAT

a painted canvas positioned behind a window or door in a set.

BACKING

Financial support for a production.

BACKLIGHT

A light that illuminates the actors from an upstage position.

BACK LOT

Area on studio property used for constructing large open-air sets or for filming outdoor scenes.

BACKSTAGE

Area off stage not seen by the audience.

BALCONY

Upper tier of seating in the auditorium.

BALLAD

A romantic, smoothly flowing song.

BAR

a pipe suspended above the stage upon which scenery, ighting and other equipment are hung.

BARNDOOR

Shutters attached to lights to control the amount of illumination.

BEAT

A deliberate pause for effect.

BEAT

Smallest unit of dramatic action which attempts to satisfy an intention.

BEAUTY SHOT

On TV soaps. A mimed scene over which the credits are rolled.

BEGINNERS

A call given to the actors who appear in the first part of a play.

BELL BOARD

A sound effects board on which are mounted different types of bells (doorbells, phone bells, etc.)

BELOW-THE-LINE EXPENSES

Production costs not included in the above-the-line expenses, such as material costs, music rights, publicity, trailer, etc.

BELOW

Toward the audience.

BELT

To sing in a forceful manner.

BEST BOY

Second in command to the gaffer or to the key grip. The best boy/grip is in charge of the rest of the grips and grip equipment; the best boy/electric is in charge of the rest of the electricians and the electrical equipment.

BIFOCAL SPOT

spotlight with special shutters to allow hard and soft edges.

BIG and TALL MEN

Male models wearing size 44 suit and up.

BILLBOARD

The opening announcements to a program.

BILLING

The relative sizes, positions, and order of names and a production’s title in printed publicity material as well as the opening credits.

BIO

Short for biography. Used for a printed program or press release.

BIOGRAPHIC PICTURE

(Biopic) A filmed story of a person’s life story.

BIT PART

A small role.

BLACK BOX

A theatre, usually small where the audience is in close proximity to the actors and action.

BLACK COMEDY

A comedy in which the humour is derived from “serious” subjects such as death, war, suffering, and murder.

BLACK LIGHT

ultra violet light.

BLACKLISTING

Discriminating against someone by refusing them work due to their personal, political, social, or religious beliefs.

BLACKOUT

Rapidly dimming lights to total darkness.

BLACKS

Black clothing worn by technical personnel during productions.

BLACKS

black curtains at the back and sides of the stage.

BLANK VERSE

A type of verse that approximates the rhythm of natural prose.

BLOCKBUSTER

Hit A movie which is a huge financial success.

BLOCKING REHEARSALS

A rehearsal during which the actors’ stage movements are rehearsed.

BLOCKING

The movement and positioning of actors for a scene.

BLUE PAGES

Pages inserted into a script after it has been numbered and distributed. The new or revised pages are dated and printed on colored paper (first blue, then pink, etc.)

BLUE SCREEN

Shooting against a large blue or green (green screen) backdrop. Later, a background is electronically added to the filmed scene to create the final image.

BODY DOUBLE

An actor who replaces another actor in a scene because the double’s body or part of the double’s body is more suitable for the shot. Frequently used for shots requiring nudity or specific physical characteristics.

BODY MAKEUP

Makeup applied below the neck or above the wrists.

BOMB

A production that is a financial disaster.

BOOK (THE)

The stage manager’s copy of the script which includes all cues and notes. AKA “prompt copy.”

BOOK

To be offered and accept a role.

BOOK

The spoken dialogue in a musical or play.

BOOK FLAT

Two scenery flats hinged together in an “L” shape in order to be free standing.

BOOKING

A firm commitment to accept a role offered to an actor.

BOOM MICROPHONE: AKA

Boom Mike, Boom, Fishpole, Giraffe A long pole with a microphone on the end. The boom is extended out near the actor s. Ideally, the microphone at the end should be placed in the camera ‘s safe area .

BOOM

A pipe or pole supporting an overhead microphone, light or camera.

BOOTH

n. Control room for lights and sound equipment of a production facility.

BOOTH

area in the theatre with the light and sound boards. Usually in the back of the theatre facing the stage.

BORDER

Drapery or masking scenery hung above the acting area to mask overhead lights and the area above the stage.

BOX OFFICE

Area where admission tickets are sold for a performance. Also used mean the size of the audience or the amount of money taken in.

BOX SET

A set (usually of an interior space) composed of a back and two side walls and sometimes a ceiling.

BREAK A LEG

A traditional alternative to saying “Good Luck” (which is considered bad luck).

BREAK CHARACTER

Speaking or acting which is not in keeping with the character.

BREAKAWAY

Costume, prop or scenery element specially constructed to break or shatter easily.

BREAKDOWN SCRIPT

A list of all items, people, props, equipment, etc needed for a shoot on a daily basis.

BREAKDOWN SERVICES LTD.

A company that provides to talent agencies descriptions of roles being cast for film and television projects.

BREAKDOWN

A detailed description of roles to be cast for a production.

BRIDGE

Music linking two scenes.

BRIDGE

Walkway above the stage to reach stage equipment.

BROADWAY

Area of New York city on and adjacent to the street named Broadway where the commercial theaters of the united states are located.

BUILD

To increase the emotional level, loudness, rate, and energy of a line, speech, scene or song.

BUMPER

A short, non-commercial announcement such as “we’ll be right back”.

BURLESQUE

A sex and comedy variety show.

BURY

To hide someone or something out of sight in a scene.

BUSINESS

An incidental bit of unscripted or improvised action used to establish a character or establish the scene.

BUSKER

Itinerant open-air street players such as jugglers, conjurers or acrobats.

BUYOUT

An agreed-to offer of full payment to a performer in lieu of residuals.

BUZZER

Sound device used in a film/TV production that cues everyone to be quiet for the shooting of a scene, and later that a scene has finished shooting.

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CABARET

Entertainment presented to any audience in night-clubs, hotel-restaurants or at dinners. Emphasizes skits, songs, magic and comedy acts.

CABARET AGREEMENT

Union/producer agreement for cabaret theatres.

CABLE NETWORK

Nationally distributed programming provided by a cable hookup (such as Showtime, ESPN, CNN, HBO.)

CADENCE

Pitch and rhythm of a vocal pattern.

CALL BACK OR CALLBACK OR CALL-BACK

Follow-up casting call for select talent who appeared at a previous call.

CALL BOARD

Bulletin board for posting audition notices, casting calls, rehearsal schedules and the like.

CALL SHEET

List of actors and crew required for various scene rehearsals. Includes when various actors will be required.

CALL TIME

The time an actor is to be on the set ready to work.

CALL

Alert announced to technicians and actors when they are needed on stage.

CAMEO

A bit part played by a notable actor who would normally only perform larger roles.

CAMERA CREW

Crew members involved with operation of the camera .

CAMERA LEFT

actor’s right when facing the camera.

CAMERA LOADER (Clapper-Loader, Clapper Loader)

The person who loads film and operates the clapboard at the beginning of a shot.

CAMERA OPERATOR (Cameraman)

Member of the camera crew who operates the camera.

CAMERA PRESENCE

an actor’s presence and sense of energy on camera.

CAMERA RIGHT

actor’s left when facing the camera.

CAMERA

A device for recording images.

CAMP

Comedic parody where the dramatic form is deliberately exaggerated to the point of ridiculousness.

CANNED

Pre-recorded effects interjected into a performance.

CANS

Headphones.

CARD: Refers to how an actor’s name appears in the credits

“separate card”, appearing alone on the screen, “shared card”, appearing with other names on the screen.

CAST ALBUM

An audio recording featuring music from a live musical production.

CAST PARTY

Party for the cast (and often crew) of a production.

CAST

The talent hired to play the characters in a production. Also, the process of selecting talent for a production.

CASTING COUCH

Refers to the highly unethical practice of pressuring talent into providing sex in return for a role.

CASTING DIRECTOR

Producer’s representative responsible for pre-auditioning performers for consideration by the director and or producer.

CASTING SOCIETY OF AMERICA (CSA)

A professional organization for Casting Directors.

CASTING

Process of selecting actors to play the characters in a production.

CATTLE CALL

An audition during which a large number of actors are moved in and out of the audition area as quickly as possible.

CATWALK

A narrow walkway suspended above the stage and/or house from which lights and scenery can be hung and accessed.

CD

Compact Disc. Can contain digital text, music and images.

CEL

A sheet, usually made of a clear material, upon which an image is drawn and which is then used as an animation frame.

CENSORSHIP

Mandatory changes to content of a performance imposed upon the producers of a production by an outside person or organization.

CENTER LINE

A line (real or imagined) that divides the acting area into two equal parts. Runs from upstage to downstage.

CENTER STAGE

The middle of the performance space.

CGI

Computer generated graphics and special effects .

CHANGE PAGES

Changes made to a script during production. Changed pages are usually printed on a colored paper stock that is different from the original pages.

CHANGES

The different clothing that is worn for a performance.

CHARACTER ACTOR

An actor who specializes in playing a particular personality type using mannerisms, speech patterns and physical appearance.

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN

Concise description of a character for casting purposes.

CHARACTER LOOK

Physical appearance of a character type.

CHARACTER MAN/WOMAN

Talent who specializes in mature roles or roles that require specialized physical or vocal skills.

CHARACTER MODEL

A model who has unusual an look or skill.

CHARACTER OBJECTIVES

The goal a character is trying to achieve.

CHARACTERIZATION

The physical attributes of a character as performed by an actor.

CHEAT

When an actor turns toward the audience or the camera a small amount so as to show more full-face. A common technique used in theatre and film.

CHECKING THE GATE

To check the lens on the camera before proceeding to the next shot.

CHEWING THE SCENERY

An actor who gives an over-the-top (hammy) performance.

CHIEF ELECTRICIAN Gaffer)

The head of the electrician crew.

CHILD LABOR LAWS

Government regulations (vary from state to state) covering the employment of children.

CHILDREN’S AGENT

An agent who specializing in the representation of child performers.

CHOREOGRAPHER

One who creates dance movements and supervises dancers in a production.

CHORUS CONTRACT

Used for those actors who are primarily performing chorus work.

CHORUS PERFORMER

Performer hired as a group of singers, dancers or actors.

CHORUS

In ancient Greek theatre, a character or group or characters who comment on the action, provide exposition and advance the plot. Also, a group of singers and dancers in a musical production.

CINEMATOGRAPHER

Person responsible for all aspects of filming.

CLAIMS

Those things a character knows or believes about themself (such as social status, tastes, habits, foibles, strengths, temptations, position in family or business, birth place, age, tastes in food, etc.).

CLAPBOARD (Clapper, Slate)

A small board which holds information identifying a shot such as working title of the film, the scene and number of take, the date, and the time. Filmed at the beginning of each take, a hinged stick (attached at the top) sharply snapped shut which creates a quick clapping sound that is used to synchronize the sound to the image.

CLAQUE

People hired for the purpose of initiating and sustaining applause, cheering, whistling, or other enthustic displays of appreciation for a performer or a performance. This is done to solicit up a more enthusiastic response from the audience than they might otherwise be spontaneously offered.

CLASS A COMMERCIAL

the most lucrative remuneration for performance in a commercial.

CLAYMATION

Animation using three dimensional figures figures made of clay or plasticine.

CLEAN SPEECH

A take in which dialogue is performed without error.

CLIENT

A person or company who hires a model.

CLIFFHANGER

A moment of high suspense, frequently used at the end of a serial drama. Leaves the audience wanting to know what happens in the next installment of the series.

CLIMAX

The most powerful, dramatic moment in a script. Action which follows proceeds to the final resolution.

CLIP

a brief excerpt from a filmed ot taped performance. Also, to abruptly cut off the beginning or end of a syllable, sound or musical note.

CLOSE CAPTIONED: AKA: Close-Captioned, CC A system which displays the current dialog on screen for deaf or hard-of-hearing viewers. Contrast with subtitles, intertitles . On the web

National Captioning Institute

CLOSE-UP (CU)

Detailed shot in which the subject extends beyond the boundry of the frame.

CLOSED POSITION

To face away from the audience.

CLOSED TURN

To turn away from the audience.

CO-STAR

A supporting lead role.

COLD READING

Unrehearsed reading of lines. Commonly done at auditions.

COLD SUBMISSION

Sending an unsolicited headshot and resume to a casting person.

COMEDIAN

Actor who specializing in comedy.

COMEDY

A performance primarily meant to amuse.

COMIC RELIEF

A comedic line or scene included in what is otherwise a serious production. Used to provide relief of tension.

COMMENTARY

A script used by the commentator (or announcer) to describe fashions for a fashion show.

COMMENTATOR

One who comments on the action of a film.

COMMERCIAL ACTOR

Actor (male or female) who performs in commercials.

COMMERCIAL AGENT

Agent or agency who represents talent who work in television, radio or movie commercials.

COMMERCIAL ARTIST

One who does artwork for advertising purposes.

COMMERCIAL MODELING

Modeling something other than fashions.

COMMERCIAL SOUND STUDIO

A studio that provides space, equipment and engineers to ad agencies, producers and others for a fee.

COMMERCIAL THEATRE

Professional theatre productions developed with the goal of making money for investors.

COMMISSION

Percentage of a performer’s earnings paid to agents or managers.

COMMUNITY THEATRE

Local, non-commercial, amateur acting group that performs theatrical productions.

COMPANY

Cast, crew and other staff associated with a production.

COMPOSITE

A variety of photos printed on one sheet; represents an actor’s different looks.

COMPOSITION

Placement of people or objects within the performing area or film frame.

COMPS

Complimentary tickets.

CONFLICT

Dramatic tension created by opposing forces. in a play.

CONFLICT (AGENCY)

When an agency has too many of an actor’s “type”.

CONFLICT (COMMERCIAL)

Contractual limitation preventing, for a set amount of time, an actor who represents one client’s product, from representing a competing product.

CONFLICT

n. A factor or person that opposes the protagonist and causes tension.

CONTACT MIC (Boundary Mic, PCC, PZM)

A microphone designed to pick up sound vibrations transmitted through a solid material.

CONTACT SHEET

A print sheet made up of all the shots from a roll of film.

CONTINUITY

Attention to progression of story-line and acton, expression of dialog, and matching the details of set dressing, props, and wardrobe to prevent discrepancies in same from shot to shot.

CONTRACTS

Legal agreement entered into by a performer and agents, managers and/or producers which defines the services to be rendered and the type of compensation to be paid.

CONTROL BOOTH

Room used to house equipment to operate lights and sound for a production.

CONVENTION

A widely used and device or technique that an audience traditionally agrees to accept as part of the theatrical production. For instance, a “stage whisper” is one which can, in reality, be heard by all the characters on the stage and by the audience. It is a convention accepted by the audience that the characters who are not the intended recipient of the whisper do not hear it and do not react to it.

COPY

the written words of a script or advertisement.

COPYRIGHT

Legal rights to control reproduction and sale of intellectual property.

CORNER

The “prompt corner”; the place from which the stage manager communicates with the actors and the production crew.

COSTUME DESIGNER

A person who designs the costumes for a production.

COSTUME FITTING

the process of getting measured and trying on costumes for a production.

COSTUME PARADE

A process during which actors, wearing their costumes, parade and pose in front of the director and costume designer who approve or suggest changes to the costumes.

COSTUME

Clothing and accessories worn by an actor for a production.

COUNTER

When an actor moves, another actor may shift their own position to balance the composition of a scene.

COUNTERCROSS

A cross by an actor to re-establish visual balance of the acting area after another actor’s cross.

COUNTERWEIGHT SYSTEM

A system used for raising and lowering scenery and lights which uses heavy weights to counterbalance the weight of the scenery and lights.

COVER

To block the audiences view of stage action or of another actor.

COVERAGE

All camera shots except the master shot.

COWBOY SHOT

A shot framed from mid-thigh up. A common framing used for the filming of many westerns.

CRAFT SERVICE

The catering company that feeds the cast and crew.

CRANE SHOT

A shot, usually from overhead, taken by a camera mounted on a crane.

CRASH BOX

Metal box filled with broken crockery which is dropped offstage to simulate breaking glass.

CRAWL

Screen credits or written text that slowly move into the screen from one side and off the other side of the screen.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Person in an advertising agency who creates and develops advertisement concepts.

CREDITS

The names of the people responsible for a film or TV production; also a list of performance experience included on a resume or in a program.

CRITIC

Journalist who writes reviews of recorded or live productions.

CROSS ABOVE

To move upstage.

CROSS BELOW

To move downstage.

CROSS-FADE

To bring lights down in one stage area of the stage while bringing lights up in another stage area.

CROSS

To move from one area of the performance area to another.

CUE

A verbal or physical signal that indicates when actor is to move, speak a line, execute stage business or execute a technical effect.

CURTAIN CALL

The final appearance of the by cast at the end of a performance to receive applause and take bows.

CURTAIN LINE

1) the line on the stage floor where the front curtain touches when brought in.
2) the final line in the play. Also called the tag line.

CURTAIN LINE

Imaginary line across the performance space marking the point where the front tabs / curtain is flown.

CURTAIN LINE

The last line of an act or play. Also, the place where the act curtain meets the floor.

CURTAIN SPEECH

Introduction given from the stage just before a performance starts.

CURTAIN TIME

Advertised start time of a performance.

CURTAIN

A drape across the stage to conceal some or all of the performance space.

CUT AND HOLD

A verbal cue to have all principal action stop and freeze in position until told to release.

CUT

A direction given by the directo to stop the action of a scene. Also, the point at which one shot is changed for another.

CYC (CYCLORAMA)

A curved wall at the back of the stage. Frequently painted light blue.

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D. P.

Director of photography

DAILIES (RUSHES)

Film and sound clips that are quickly processed for next day viewing.

DARK THEATRE

A day or night with no performance.

DAY PLAYER

A principal performer hired on a day to day basis.

DAY-OUT-OF-DAYS

The number of days a performer will work out of the total production schedule of days.

DAYTIME DRAMA

Soap opera.

DEADPANNING

To get laughs using a neutral facial expression.

DEALER COMMERCIAL (DEALER SPOT)

Commercial produced and paid for by a national advertiser which is then turned over to local dealers to book air time, usually with the dealer’s tag added.

DECIBEL (DB)

Measurement of sound volume.

DECIBEL OR DB

n., A unit of sound volume.

DELIVER

To speak a line.

DEMO TAPE

(DEMO REEL) An audio or video tape containing scene or sound clips that actors and their agents use for auditions.

DEMONSTRATOR

A model who demonstrates a product in a trade show, convention or store.

DENOUEMENT

The part of the play following the climax, during which events and conflicts are brought to their resolution.

DEPTH OF FIELD

Area within the camera’s view in which objects are in focus

DEPUTY

Works in conjunction with the Stage Manager as the elected company member responsible for facilitating communication between Equity and the rest of the company.

DGA

Directors Guild of America.

DIALECT COACH

Specialist who trains actors in a specific dialect or accent.

DIALECT

A distinct regional or linguistic speech pattern.

DIALOGUE

The spoken line in a script.

DIM

Decreasing the intensity of lights.

DIMMER

A device which controls the intensity of lights.

DINNER THEATER

A restaurant that also stages theatrical productions

DIPS

lights set into the stage floor usually covered by trapdoors.

DIRECTING

Interpretation of a script and development of the action which is to take place.

DIRECTION

Guidance and instructions from the director.

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY (D.P.)

Responsible for technical and artistic decisions required for filming of scenes as desired by the director.

DIRECTOR’S CUT

A cut of a movie without studio interference as as the director would like it to be seen. May not be color or density corrected or have final music and effects

DIRECTOR’S GUILD OF AMERICA

DGA

DIRECTOR

The principal creative artist on a production. Responsible for coordinating and overseeing all artistic and technical aspects of a production. Conducts performances and rehearsals and who supervises, defines and gives unity to the performances. Director’s duties might include casting , giving direction to the actors, script editing , shot selection , shot composition , and editing .

DISCOVERED

A person or object on stage when the curtain is raised.

DISCOVERY

Moment of revelation.

DISSOLVE

Transition from one shot to another by briefly superimposing one image upon another and then allowing the first image to fade away.

DOCUMENTARY

A non-fiction narrative which records an event, person, or place.

DOLLY GRIP

A person responsible for physically moving the camera during a shot.

DOLLY SHOT

A moving shot taken from a dolly which moves the camera toward or away from the subject.

DOLLY TRACKS

A set of tracks upon which a dolly-mounted camera is moved.

DOLLY

A wheeled platform upon which a camera is mounted which allows physical movement of the camera.

DOMESTIC COMEDY

A production that explores the contradictions and eccentricities among individual characters.

DOMESTIC DRAMA

A production that explores the problems of ordinary people in a serious, non-tragic manner.

DOMESTIC RUN

Television broadcast of a program within the broadcast area of a particular station.

DOUBLE BILL

Two movies shown consecutively.

DOUBLE EXPOSURE

two distinct images appearing simultaneously with one superimposed upon the other.

DOUBLE TAKE

Looking at something or someone, then looking away, then quickly looking back.

DOUBLE

An actor who briefly stands in place for another actor as for a stunt.

DOUBLING

Actor performing more than one part in a production.

DOWN RIGHT

Acting area closest to the audience, on the right side of the stage as the actor faces the audience.

DOWNGRADE

Reduction of a performer’s on-camera role from principal to extra.

DOWNSTAGE

Acting area nearest to the audience

DRAMA

A production that takes a thoughtful, serious attitude toward its subject matter.

DRAMATIST

One who writes plays.

DRAMATURG

Someone who works as a consultant to the production company, who researches script selection, and background and historical relevance of the production. Can be a liaison between director and playwright and can assist with editing & revising scripts.

DRAPES

Stage Curtains.

DRAWING ROOM COMEDY

Witty, upper-class comedies popular from the turn of the century.

DRESS CIRCLE

Seating area above the stalls and below the balcony.

DRESS PARADE

Final check of costumes before the first dress rehearsal. The cast parade each of their costumes under stage lights in order for the director and costume designer to make any necessary changes or improvements to the costumes.

DRESS REHEARSAL

A full rehearsal, with all technical elements included.

DRESS STAGE

To slightly change position to balance the acting area after another actor made a cross.

DRESS THE SET

Add curtains, furniture, props, etc. to the set.

DRESSER

A wardrobe assistant assigned to help with costume changes costume maintenance throughout the run of a production.

DRESSING ROOMS

Rooms in which actors change into their costumes and apply make-up.

DRIVE-ON PASS

A pass which permits one to drive onto and park on a studio lot.

DROP

A piece of cloth, often painted to depict scenery, which is lowered from above the acting area to set a scene.

DROP

suspended cloth flown rite stage area.

DROPPING LINES

Unintentionally not speaking lines or inadvertantly speaking them so they that cannot be properly heard.

DRY ICE

Frozen carbon dioxide which produces a low-lying mist or fog when dropped into boiling water.

DRY TECH

A rehearsal, usually without actors, during which the light and sound cues are worked out.

DRY

To forget ones lines.

DUBBING

After filming, matching an actor’s voice with the lip movements of the same or a different actor on the screen. Also copying a sound from one medium to another.

DUOLOGUE

Conversation between two characters.

DENOUEMENT

The events following the climax of a production in which the resolution or clarification takes place

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EAR PROMPTER

Ear device worn to assist actors with scripts that are difficult to memorize.

ECHO

Reverberanting sound

ECU

Abbreviation for extreme close-up.

EDITING

Process of combining together (manually or electronically) individual shots into a complete film.

EDITOR

Person who assembles the visual and audio elements of a film into a completed film.

EFFECTS PROJECTOR

Lantern used to project an image onto a stage or, more commonly, the cyclorama.

EFFECTS STOCK

Special film stock that is used to generate computerized composites.

ELEVATION

A working drawing showing the side view of the set or lighting arrangement.

ELEVATOR

A mechanized stage that raises and lowers the floor to get scenery, properties, and performers on and off the stage.

ELEVEN O’CLOCK NUMBER

A big finish show tune that occurs shortly before the end of a musical.

ELIZABETHAN THEATRE

Period in English theatre associated with the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558–1603). Among the many notable authors from this period are William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Kyd, Ben Jonson and Beaumont & Fletcher.

EMOTIONAL MEMORY

A technique of acting by which an actor recalls the intricate details of a past experience and the emotions experienced for the purpose of evoking a similar emotion which is then used by the actor in performance.

EMPLOYER OF RECORD (EOR)

Company responsible for employment and for taxes and unemployment benefits.

ENGAGER

Any person, producer, advertising agency, corporation or other entitiy that contracts and/or pays performers for their performance in a television or radio commercial.

ENSEMBLE

A group of actors who work together with no one actor outshining any others.

ENTR’ACTE

a musical interlude between play acts.

ENTRANCE

Entering the acting area. Also the opening in the set that is used for entering.

ENVIRONMENTAL THEATER

A theatrical performance in which the audience area and the acting area are intermixed with the action occurring all around the audience.

EPIC

A film that requires an immense production.

EPILOGUE

A short scene at the end of the main action of a production which explains or comments upon the action.

EPIPHANY, EPIPHANAL MOMENT

A character’s sudden insight into his/her condition or circumstances.

EPISODIC

Series of self-contained productions sharing a common title and featuring recurring lead characters, and any number of transient secondary characters.

EQUITY WAIVER

99 or fewer seat professional theatres over which Equity has special contractual agreements. Equity and non-equity actors may perform in these productions. In Los angeles the agreement is called LA 99 Seat plan, in New York it is called a Seasonal Showcase code.

EQUITY

A trade union for actors and stage managers involved in live performances.

ESCAPE STAIRS

Steps which are hidden from the audience’s view, which are used by actors to exit or enter from upper-level platforms or doors.

EVERGREEN

A song that continues being popular year after year.

EXCLUSIVITY

Contract provision in which an actor agrees not to work for other employers during the time the contract is in effect.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

A producer who is who is responsible for funding an overall production but not involved in the technical aspects of the production.

EXHIBIT MODEL

Models who host conventions and other promotion assignments.

EXIT LINE

Last line spoken by an actor before leaving the stage.

EXIT

To leave the acting area. The opening in the set that is used for leaving.

EXPENSE FORM

A form used by actors to document their job related expenses for tax purposes.

EXPOSITION

Information essential to the understanding of the dramatic action. Revealed to the audience through dialog.

EXPRESSIONISM

A stylized form of theater in which greater value on emotion than realism. Visual effects are often accomplished through distortion.

EXT

Exterior. A scene shot outside.

EXTRA

A performer who appears in a non-specific, non-speaking character usually as part of a crowd or in the background of a scene.

EXTREME CLOSE-UP

A shot in which the subject fills the entire frame.

EYELINE MATCH

A technique used in special effects to assure a live actor is looking at the “face” of the special effects character who will later be inserted into the scene.

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FADE (Fade To Black, Fade In, Fade Out)

Gradual transition from a normal image to complete blackness (fade out, fade to black), or vice versa (fade in). Usually used to set off sequences.

FAIR USE

(law) A stipulation in the Copyright act of 1976 (Section 107) under which some limited “fair use” may be made of a protected work without permission” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching . . . scholarship or research.” Whether fair use includes such things as excerpting sections of commercial recordings for background music in audio drama is not clear.

FALSE PROSCENIUM

A temporary frame made of canvas or flats, used to reduce the opening of the permanent proscenium. Often used by touring companies that have to play on a variety of stage sizes.

FALSE STAGE

A temporary stage floor laid upon the permanent stage floor.

FARCE

Comedy that relies on ridiculous situations, horseplay and slap-stick action.

FAST MOTION

Cinemagraphic technique where movement appears more rapid than normal.

FAVORED NATIONS

Contract provision that states if another specified actor or actors receive better terms or conditions than the contracting actor, then the contracting actor is entitled to the same terms or conditions of the other specified actor or actors.

FEATURE FILM: AKA

A movie or videotape production, at least 40–45 minutes (2 reels) long and intended for mass release through movie theatres or broadcast.

FEATURE PRESENTATION

The main movie shown during a screening.

FEATURED ROLE

A non-speaking role that performs specific business in the scene.

FEMME FATALE

Term used to describe a female character whose seductive charm leads men into compromising or dangerous circumstances.

FILM FESTIVAL

An event during which numerous films are shown, usually in competition.

FIELD REP

Union staff member who assures contractual agreements are met.

FIELD REP.

AFTRA or SAG union staff member who ensures contractual compliance on sets.

FIGHT CAPTAIN

Company member responsible for fight choreography and safety of actors engaged in staged fights.

FILL LIGHT

Light which fills dark areas and the shadows that the key light creates.

FILM MAGAZINES

A reel of film ready to be placed into the camera.

FILM NOIR: Literally

Genre of film which features brooding characters, corruption, crime, detectives, and the seedy side life.

FILM STOCK

Medium on which photographic images are recorded.

FINAL PREVIEW

Final performance before a production opens.

FINALE

The sequence which ends each act.

FINE CUT

Final assembly of all the various audio and visual components of a film.

FIRE CURTAIN

Non-flammable curtain hung directly behind the proscenium. Also called asbestos curtain or fireproof curtain.

FIRST A.D.

First Assistant Director.

FIRST ASS’T. CAMERA OP.

First Assistant Camera Operator. Responsible for focusing the camera lens. Also known as the Focus Puller.

FIRST ELECTRIC

First row of lights hung from a batten behind the proscenium.

FIRST LOOK

Right of first refusal for a script or project.

FIRST REFUSAL

Courtesy extended by an actor to a potential employer in which neither the actor nor the employer is committed to a job, but the actor may also actively seek alternate employment for the same day.

FIRST TEAM

The principal actors.

FIRST-RUN SYNDICATION

Television programs produced for and sold to independent TV stations across the country.

FISH-EYE

an extreme wide-angle lens.

FITTING MODEL

A model who stands while a fashion is being pinned and draped on her by a designer.

FIXED CYCLE

For commercials, a 13-week period for which the advertiser pays a holding fee to retain the right to use performer’s services, likeness and image in a previously produced advertisement.

FLASH FRAME

A shot which lasts only a few frames.

FLASH-POT

A small box that contains pyrotechnics which will cause a noisy explosion of smoke when ignited.

FLASHBACK

Breaking normal chronology by shifting to a past time.

FLASHFORWARD

Breaking normal chronology by shifting to a future time.

FLAT

Unit of scenery consisting of a wooden frame, covered with muslin, canvas or a wooden veneer which is painted with scenic elements.

FLIES

Area above a stage in which scenery, lighting and other equipment are suspended from pipes (battens.)

FLIGHTCASE

Metal framed wooden box on wheels which is used for transporting equipment from one performance venue to another.

FLIPPER

Easily removed false teeth for children, used for cosmetic purposes.

FLOODLIGHT

A lighting instrument that emits a wide, unfocused beam of light.

FLOOR CLOTH

Painted canvas sheets placed on the stage floor to achieve a specific effect.

FLOOR LIGHTS

Lights which emit a general fixed spread of light.

FLOOR PLAN

A drawing that show the location of scenic elements.

FLOOR POCKET

a small box, sunk into the stage floor; contains an electrical outlet.

FLUFF

To fumble one’s lines.

FLY

To raise and scenery into the area above the stage (fly out) or lowered onto the stage (fly in).

FLY BARS

Metal bars to which scenery and lanterns are attached for flying above the stage.

FLY LOFT

Space above the stage where scenery is “flown” out of sight of the Audience.

FLY SYSTEM

a system of weights, ropes, pulleys and battens which is used to raise and lower lights, scenery and equipment.

FLYING HARNESS

Device worn by actors who are then raised from or lowered into the acting area.

FOAM TECHNICIAN

Person responsible for creating foam latex prosthetic appliances.

FOCAL LENGTH

Distance from the focal point of a lens to the plane of the film.

FOCAL POINT

Place within the acting area that attracts the interest to the audience at that moment.

FOCUS PULLER

Camera crew member (assistant cameraman) who adjusts the focus of the camera during filming.

FOH

(FRONT OF HOUSE) The audience side of the proscenium arch.

FOIL

A character whose dramatic purpose is to set-off another character by contrast; a side-kick.

FOLEY ARTIST

Someone who creates foley sound effects.

FOLEY EDITOR

Someone who edits the sounds created by the foley artist.

FOLEY MIXER

Someone who mixes the sound effects created by the foley artist.

FOLEY EFFECTS

Incidental sound effects added in synchronization to filmed footage. Effects are not prercorded. They are created live by the foley artist as the artist views the film footage to synchronize the sound effects.

FOLEY WALKER

One who specializes in foley effects.

FOLLOW SPOT

A high power lighting instrument that can be adjusted and swiveled so as to maintain a tight focus on a stage performer.

FOOTLIGHTS

A row of lights that are recessed or partially recessed into the front edge of the stage

FORCED CALL

A call to work less than 12 hours after dismissal on the previous day.

FOREGROUND CROSS

Action in a scene in which an extra passes between the camera and the principal actors.

FOREIGN REPLAY

Fee paid for rebroadcast outside the United States.

FORESHADOWING

Action or dialogue in one part of a script that hints at something that will happen in another part of the script.

FORESTAGE

(Apron) Area of stage that extends into the house side of the proscenium.

FOUR A’S

Associated Actors and Artistes of America, the umbrella organization for AFTRA, SAG, and other performer’s unions.

FOURTH WALL

The invisible “wall” that separates the audience and the performers. “Breaking the fourth wall” refers to an actor speaking directly to the audience.

FRAME

An individual picture image on a film print .

FRANCHISED AGENT

A talent agent approved by AFTRA or SAG to solicit and negotiate employment for their members.

FREELANCE

Actors who work non-exclusively through more than one talent agent

FREEZE FRAME

An effect in which a single frame is repeated to give the illusion that all action has stopped.

FREEZE

To stop all movement.

FRENCH SCENE

A scene division within a play marked by the entrance or exit of a character.

FRESNEL

(pronounced”Fre-nell”) A lighting instrument with a special lens designed project an even, soft-edged beam of light.

FRICATIVE

A vocalization produced by forcing breath through a narrow opening in the mouth (such as the letters f, s, v and z.)

FRONT ELEVATION

A scale drawing of the front view of a set.

FROST

A filter used to soften the edges of a light beam.

FULL BACK

When a performer’s back faces the audience.

FULL FRONT

When a performer performer faces the audience.

FUTURISM

Theatrical movement that emphasized the impact of technology on society.

FX

Special effects.

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GAFFER

Chief Lighting Technician. The head of the electrical department, responsible for the design and placement of lighting and electrical equipment.

GALLERY

In 19th century theatre, the highest and cheapest seats in the house. Those who sat in the gallery were referred to as “the gods”. Eventually the term “the gods” came to refer to the gallery itself.

GAUZE (Scrim)

A lightweight, coarsely woven cloth flown in front of a scene. When the gauze is lit from behind, the scene appears diffused. When the gauze is lit from the front, the gauze appears opaque and blocks the scene from view.

GEL OR GELATINE

A thin, transparent colored filter placed infront of a lighting instument to color the light emitted.

GENERAL INTERVIEW

An initial meeting between a casting director or agent and actor, when no specific role is being auditioned.

GENERAL MANAGER

Under the producer, oversees all non artistic parts of the production.

GENERAL PRESS AGENT

Individual responsible for the promotion of the production

GHOST LIGHT

A light, usually by the stage door, that is always left burning.

GIVE STAGE

To take a weak stage position so another actor can have the focus.

GIVE/TAKE

To receive or give greater focus in a scene. The actor who receives the greater focus is said to take the scene. The other is said to give the scene.

GIVEN CIRCUMSTANCES

Aspects of character and the place that are beyond the character’s control such as age, sex, state of health, time, place, date, season, political climate, economic climate, philosophical climate, religious climate, social circumstances.

GO MOTION

A form of animation which incorporates motion blur.

GO UP

When a show does not start, it “goes up”.

GO-SEE

A modeling interview with a client for a booking.

GO

Word used by stage managers to cue technical effects.

GOBO

A thin metal disc cut with a pattern and placed in front of a light source so the pattern can be projected.

GOING DARK

Warning to people on stage that the lights are about to be switched off.

GOLDEN TIME

Overtime paid to the talent after the 16th hour of contiuous shooting.

GRAND DRAPE

The”main” curtain which separates the stage from the audience.

GRAND GUIGNOL

Shock theatre originating in France; popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Featured women in peril, ghosts or horrific murders.it first developed in france, notably at the theatre du grand guignot.

GREASE-PAINT

Term for theatrical make-up with an oil or “grease” base.

GREEK THEATRE

Theatre that flourished from approximately 600 BC to 200 BC around what is now Athens, Greece. Evolved from religious rituals incorporating dance and song and later acting techniques. Developed the basic dramatic forms of tragedy and comedy, theatre architecture and theatre terminology.

GREEN ROOM

Room near the stage where the actors to meet and relax.

GREENSCREEN

A technique similar to bluescreen in which a scene is shot against a large green backdrop. Later, a background is electronically added to the filmed scene to create the final image.

GRID

Metal or wooden framework suspended above the stage on which flown scenery, drops and lighting battens are supported.

GRIP

Crew member of a TV or film production, who is responsible for the adjustment and maintenance of production equipment on the set. Also a member of the stage crew responsible for moving pieces of scenery and props before a show and during scene changes.

GROSS FEE

Total compensation paid to a performer not including money paid for contracted expenses such as per diem allowances or travel costs.

GROUND CLOTH

Heavy piece of cloth used to cover the stage floor.

GROUND PLAN

Plan for a set design which shows, as seen from above, the exact position of walls, doors, scenery, furniture and the like. Also indicates the position of items suspended above.

GROUNDROW

A raised section of scenery usually depicting bushes, rocks etc.

GUEST STAR

On a TV program, prominent one-time or multiple-episode lead actor who is not a regular.

GUILD CARD

Another name for a union membership card.

GUILD MEMBER

Dues-paying member of an industry union.

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HAIRSTYLIST

Person responsible for maintaining actors’ hairstyles during filming.

HALF HOUR

Warning to a production company given thirty-five minutes before a performance is to begin.

HAM

A performer who exaggerates movement or voice.

HAND MODEL

Performer whose hands are featured in movies, television or commercial productions.

HAND PROP

A small item used by an actor in performance.

HANGING

Attaching lights or scenery to battens.

HARLEQUIN

A stock character originating in Commedia dell’Arte. Recognized by his tight-fitting suit of silk diamonds in contrasting colors.

HAU

Hebrew Actors’ Union.

HAZER

A machine that produces clouds of white, non-toxic fog through the vaporisation of mineral oil.

HEAD SHEET

A letter size sheet with approximately 15 to 20 reduced size head shots on one page.

HEAD SHOT (HEADSHOT)

A black and white 8 X 10 photograph showing an actor’s head and shoulders.

HEADSET

A headphone/microphone combination used in communications systems.

HEAVY

A villainous character.

HEAVY

role of a villain.

HEMP

A rope made from hemp fibres.

HEROIC DRAMA

Period play, written in verse, in which there is a happy ending or in which the deaths of the main characters are considered an heroic triumph.

HIATUS

Time during which a TV series is not in production.

HIGH CONCEPT

A film that includes elements that creates excitement in order to draw a large audience. (e.g. amazing effects, popular stars, strong script)

HIGH HAT

A top hat.

HIGH-ANGLE SHOT

A shot taken from above a scene as if looking down on the scene.

HIT A MARK

To move to a prearranged, marked location within an acting area so a scene can be played out properly or in film, in proper focus. Small pieces of tape or chalk marks are placed on the floor during blocking to mark the proper positions.

HOLA

Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors

HOLD

A contractual obligation to reserve a block of time to work. It is considered a firm engagement.

HOLDING FEE

Money paid by an advertiser to a performer to retain the right to use a performer’s services, image or likeness.

HOLDING

An area in which the Extras report and stay while waiting to perform.

HONEY WAGON

A vehicle containing one or more dressing rooms and/or lavatories.

HOOK

A memorable phrase or melody which is repeated in a song.

HOST

A performer who introduces or segues segments of a program. Includes Masters of Ceremonies, Moderators, Quiz masters and Interviewers.

HOT SET

A set on which a scene is being shot and which should not be changed or disturbed.

HOT SPOT

Area of greatest illumination.

HOUSE CURTAIN

Drapery that separates the acting area from the audience.

HOUSE LEFT

Left side when seated in the audience.

HOUSE LIGHTS

Lights that illuminate the audience area.

HOUSE MANAGER

Person in charged the auditorium and anything related to the audience. (box office, ushers/usherettes, refreshments, cash, etc.)

HOUSE OPEN

when the audience is allowed into the auditorium.

HOUSE RIGHT

Right side when seated in the audience.

HOUSE TABS

Curtains hung across the front of the stage.

HOUSE

The audience. Also, the area of a performance venue that is reserved for the audience.

HUBRIS

Excessive confidence. Often is the tragic flaw in an otherwise noble character.

HYPE

Excessive praise or advertising.

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IATSE

International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees.

IAU

Italian Actors’ Union.

ID

A brief (10 seconds or less) commercial message which depicts or mentions a sponsor’s name, product or service during broadcast over television or radio

ILLUSTRATION MODEL

A model who poses for an artist or with a product (excluding fashion.)

IMPROVISATION

To perform without preparation.

IMU

International Musicians Union.

IN

Toward the center of the acting area.

IN MEDIAS RES

A plot device where the action starts at an exciting point then flashes back to the beginning proceeding to the end.

IN POST

During post-production.

IN THE MOMENT

Involved in the immediate emotional motivation.

IN THE ROUND

Seating arrangement where the acting area is enclosed on all sides by seating.

“IN” TIME

The time of day to begin the production day or to return from a break.

INAMORATA

The female love interest. The leading lady of a commedia dell’arte group.

INCITING INCIDENT

Action near the beginning of a play that gets the main action going.

INDEPENDENT FILM

A movie produced by a production company not controlled a major studio.

INDEPENDENT

A broadcast station not affiliated with a network.

INDICATE

To play an action in an overly obvious manner.

INDUSTRIAL PROGRAM

a production designed to promote directly or indirectly the image of an organization, its products or services or education in the use of its products or services. Not intended for broadcast on television.

INFANT MODEL

A baby between 6 and 18 months old who appears in commercials or print ads.

INFORMAL MODELING

Model work in a department or retail store or other commercial establishment where the model is not on a platform and can iinteract with customers.

INGENUE

A young, female lead role

INNER PROSCENIUM

False prosecenium that temporarily reduces the opening of the permanent proscenium.

INSERT

A close-up shot that will be “inserted” into the final version of a film during editing.

INSET

A small scene set inside a larger one.

INT. (INTERIOR)

A scene shot indoors.

INTERCUT

To resume recording just prior to the point where an error was made.

INTERCUTTING

Alternate scenes between action occuring at two different locations.

INTERIOR MONOLOGUE

A monolog understood by the audience to represen the unspoken thoughts of a character.

INTERIOR

Scene filmed to represent a indoor location.

INTERLUDE

A scene that suspends the main flow of action.

INTERMISSION

A formal break between acts of a performance during which the audience can usually move about the house, get refreshments, etc.

INTERSTITIAL

Brief, non-commercial, non-PSA material which fills short periods of time between main programs on pay or cable television.

INTERTITLES

A title card appearing intercut with a scene . Contrast with subtitles. Frequently used with silent films.

INTERVIEW

A meeting between agent or client and talent to see if the talent is right for the job.

INVESTOR

Financial backer for a commercial production.

IRONY

A literary device in which what is stated contrasts or conflicts with what is suggested.

ISO BOOTH

(isolation booth) A small room for recording a sound in isolation from other sounds.

ITALIAN RUN-THROUGH

A rehearsal run at “double time”. To help actors overcome problems with slow pacing.

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JINGLE

A short commercial message set to music.

JUMP CUT

A cut which conveys an abrupt change in time and/or place.

JUMP TUNE

A fast show tune with a strong beat.

JUNIOR MODEL

A young looking teen model who fits the smaller sizes.

JUVENILE

Role of a young man.

JUVES

Short for”Juveniles” — the child members of the company.

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KABUKI

Popular theatre of Japan usually featuring stock, superhuman heroes and villains.

KEEPER

A good take.

KEY GRIP

The chief of a group of grips.

KEY LIGHT

The primary source of illumination.

KICKOFF

The start principal photography .

KILL

To switch off.

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LARGE SIZE MODEL

Female model size 12 and up.

LAVALIER

A small “tieclip” microphone worn inconspicuously in clothing, hair, wigs over the ear or on the face if heavily made-up.

LAY DOWN

To record something.

LAY IN

To overdub.

LEAD ROLE

Principal performer in a movie or a television show.

LEADING MAN/LEADING WOMAN

Actor who usually plays the most important roles in a production.

LEAGUE OF RESIDENT THEATRES (LORT)

An organization of not-for-profit professional regional theatres.

LEG MODEL

A model who has attractive legs for showing hosiery, beauty products for legs, shoes, etc.

LEG

A long, narrow curtain hung to mask the left and right wings from the audience.

LEGIT VOICE

A classically trained voice.

LEGITIMATE THEATRE

Term which refers to live theatre performed on a stage.

LIBRETTO

The text part of a musical, opera or other musical production; as opposed to the lyrics and the music.

LIMES

Followspots and their operators.

LINE PRODUCER

Proder responsible for keeping the director on time and budget.

LINED SCRIPT

A copy of the shooting script prepared during production to indicate what portions of the script have been shot.

LINES

The dialogue of a script.

LITTLE THEATRE

Non-professional, community theatre.

LOCATION FILMING

Filming at a location out of a studio.

LOCATION SCOUT

A person who looks for suitable locations for filming.

LOCK IT DOWN

A direction given by the assistant director instructing everyone on the set to be quiet.

LOG LINE

One-sentence of the storyline of a script.

LONG SHOT (LS)

A camera shot which captures the performer’s complete body.

LOOPING

Recording and adding dialog to a scene after the scene has been filmed.

LORT

League of Resident Theatres.

LOS ANGELES 99-SEAT THEATRE PLAN CODE

A union contract developed for use in the county of Los Angeles in theatres of 99 seats or less.

LOW-ANGLE SHOT

A shot taken from below a subject.

LOW-KEY

Light which provides dim lighting with heavy, dark shadows.

LYRICS

The words of a song.

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M.O.W.

Movie of the week

MAJOR MARKETS

The large entertainment markets, New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago.

MAKE-UP ARTIST

One who specializes in applying make-up to actors or models.

MAKING THE ROUNDS

Attending interviews and auditions in order to get work.

MALAPROPISM

The use of an incorrect word that sounds similar to the correct one.

MARK

A specific place on a set where an actor is to stand to in the proper light and camera angle. The place is generally marked on the floor with tape or chalk.

MARTINI SHOT

Last shot of the day.

MASK

To hide from view.

MASTER CARPENTER

Stagehand responsible for all scenery and the crew that handles the scenery.

MASTER ELECTRICIAN

Stagehand responsible for all lighting and of the lighting crew.

MASTER PROPERTY MAN

Stagehand responsible for all props and prop crew.

MASTER SHOT

A wide camera shot that includes the principal actors and background scene. Generally it is the first shot made of a scene.

MATCH CUT

a cut intended to blend two shots together unobtrusively (opposed to a jump cut).

MATCHING

To perform the same physical movements and dialog from take to take in order to preserve the visual continuity over a range of camera angles.

MATINEE

Afternoon performance.

MATTE SHOT

Combining two different shots on one print so it looks as if a single had been taken all at once.

MEAL PENALTY

A fee imposed upon a producer for failure to provide meals or meal breaks as specified by contract.

MELODRAMA

A performance in which the plot is simplistic, characters are clearly defined as hero, villian, etc. and emotions are exaggerated.

METHOD ACTING

A style of acting in which actors draw emptions and experiences from their own personal lives to develop the character they are playing.

MEZZANINE

Seating area above the orchestra and below the balcony. When a theatre hat only a single balcony, first several rows are frequently designated the mezzanine.

MIC

Microphone.

MIME

A special kind of performance in which no words are spoken. Plot and character and emotion is conveyed by movement.

MINI SERIES

Episodic program with a set number of episodes; for TV broadcast.

MIX

To blend a multi-track recording into a master recording.

MODEL AGENCY

A company that promotes, books, bills and pays models.

MODEL’S BOOK

A model’s portfolio of pictures.

MODEL

a performer engaged to display or physically illustrate a product, idea or service.

MONITOR

Person in charge of checking actors in to a theatre audition, providing them with sides and determining in which order that actors will read.

MONOLOGUE

a solo performance by an actor.

MOS

(Mit Out Sound) A shot without dialogue or sound.

MOTION PICTURE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

The Motion Picture Association of America

MOTION PICTURE EDITORS GUILD

Professional union for picture and sound editors, re-recording mixers, projectionists, recordists, mic boom operators, engineers and story analysts.

MOTION PICTURE PRODUCERS AND DISTRIBUTORS OF AMERICA

MPPDA

MOTION PICTURE SOUND EDITORS

MPSE

MOTION PICTURE STILLS PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSOCIATION

MPSPA

MOVE IN

To cross toward the center of the stage.

MOVE OUT

To cross away from the center of the stage.

MOVIE COMMERCIAL

A filmed ad for film, played in movie houses.

MOW

Movie of the Week.

MS.

Manuscript.

MUGGING

exaggerating facial expressions.

MUSIC, BACKGROUND

Music that reinforces the mood or atmosphere of a scene.

MUSICAL DIRECTOR

Responsible for the music in a production, music arrangements and rehearsals, and conducts the band or orchestra.

MUSICAL

Production in which a major component of the storytelling is accomplished through music, song and dance.

MYSTERY PLAYS

A style theatre that dramatizes events from the Bible

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NAME

A well-known performer, director or producer whose involvement in a production will increase interest in a production.

NARRATION

A speeches that describes the dramatic action, especially off-stage action.

NARRATIVE

The story.

NATIONAL COMMERCIAL

A commercial produced for usefor broadcast throughout the country.

NATURALISM

A style of performance in which the actors strive for a “realistic” performance.

NEOREALISM

A film style which uses documentary filmmaking techniques to produce a fictional situation.

NET FEES

Income earned by a performer for work done in front of the camera or microphone. Used for calculation of residuals and use payments.

NETWORK APPROVAL

Approval of an actor for a production controlled by a network studio.

NETWORK

A regional or national organization which offers member broadcast stations programs and other services.

NEW COMEDY

A period of classic Greek Comedy of thelate 4th and 3rd Centuries B.C. Incorporated stock characters and conventional plots.

NIGHT PREMIUM

A fee paid for specified work performed after 8 p.m.

NOH DRAMA

An ancient, lyrical Japanese dramatic form. Employs ritual dance, elaborate costumes and makeup.

NON PRIME TIME

TV broadcast time before 7 p.m. and after 11 p.m.

NON-EQUITY

A play that is not under an Equity agreement.

NON-LINEAR EDITING

Computer-assisted editing of a movie.

NON-SAG

A play that is not under a SAG agreement.

NON-TRADITIONAL CASTING

A cast which includes people of color, women, seniors and performers with disabilities.

NON-UNION

A person or production not affiliated with a union.

NOTES

Comments about a performance.

NPR

National Public Radio.

NUDITY CODE

Specific guidelines and restrictions pertaining to the use of nudity by performers in auditions, rehearsals and performances.

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OBJECTIVE

The goal toward which a character strives.

OBSTACLE

something prevents a character from achieving their objectives.

OFF BOOK

The time when lines are memorized and no longer read from the script.

OFF-BROADWAY

Small, professional New York theatres not located on or near the Broadway theatre district.

OFF-CAMERA

Dialogue delivered out of the view of the camera.

OFF-OFF-BROADWAY

Very small, low-budget avante-garde productions often produced in lofts, warehouses or churches.

OFFSTAGE

Backstage area not seen by the audience.

OMNIES

Indistinguishable chatter or sounds used as general, atmospheric noise. Also called “walla.”

ON BOOK

Time when performers have not yet memorized their lines.

ON HOLD

a casting director will put you ‘on hold’ when you are wanted by the client for the job but not formally hired yet. You may not take other jobs that would conflict with the production dates during this time.

ON-CAMERA

within the view of the camera.

ON-STAGE

Performance area visible to the audience.

ONE QUARTER LEFT

To face stage left at a 45 degree angle from fully open.

ONE QUARTER RIGHT

To face stage right at a 45 degree angle from fully open.

OPEN CALL

A tryout open to all who attend.

OPEN STAGE

Platform stage surrounded on three sides by the audience.

OPEN TURN

To turn toward the audience.

OPEN

Fully facing the audience.

OPERA

A play in which the performers sing their roles.

ORCHESTRA PIT

The sunken area immediately in front of the stage.

ORCHESTRA

Main floor seating area.

OUT CLAUSE

Section of a contract which defines the circumstances under which a performer can terminate the contract.

OUT OF FRAME

Outside the camera range.

OUT TIME

Actual time after which an actor has changed out of wardrobe and is released.

OUT-TAKE

Filmed scenes not used in a movie.

OUT

Away from the center of the stage.

OUTTAKE

A bad take that will not be used in the final film.

“OUT” TIME

Time you are released after changing out of wardrobe and make-up.

OVER-DUB

To record a part onto a multi-track recording.

OVER-THE-SHOULDER

A shot taken over the shoulder of one actor, focusing on the face and upper torso of the other actor in a scene.

OVERCRANKING

Increasing the frame rate of a camera so when the film is played at the normal frame rate the action appears to be in slow motion.

OVERPLAY

To exaggerate.

OVERSCALE

Payment that is higher than the amount in the standard union contract.

OVERTIME

Work which goes beyond the contractual work day.

OVERTURE

The music which begins a performance.

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P.O.V.

Point of view. The circumstances as percieved by the character.

PACE

Tempo at which a scene or act is played.

PADDING

Fabricated credits on one’s resume.

PAGEANTRY

Spectacular, highly theatrical performance.

PAN

Side to side camera sweep.

PANDER TO AN AUDIENCE

To gain audience approval at the expense of artistic development of a production.

PANTOMIME

Acting out without dialogue or props.

PAPER THE HOUSE

To give away tickets to a performance to fill seats for a particular performance.

PARENT UNION

An actor’s first union that may provide eligibility into another actor union.

PART

An acting role.

PARTS MODEL

One who models products thats focus body parts such as hands, feet, legs or arms.

PASSION PLAY

Religious drama depicting the life of Christ.

PATHOS

To evoke sympathy, sorrow or pity.

PATTER SONG

Singing many words quickly.

PAY OR PLAY

A guaranteed to be paid regardless whether work is performed or not.

PAY-TELEVISION

Broadcast TV that requires the viewer to make a payment to receive a specific program.

PAYDAY

The day paychecks are distributed.

PAYMASTER

Independent payroll/accounting company hired by the producer to issue paychecks to actors and crew.

PAYOLA

Illegal payment to broadcasters in exchange for airplay.

PENSION AND HEALTH PAYMENT

An amount of money paid by the producer to cover actor’s union benefits.

PER DIEM

A set daily paid for living expenses.

PERFORMER

An entertainer.

PERSONAL MANAGER

One who develops the career of a performer in exchange for an agreed upon percentage of earnings.

PERSONAL STATISTICS

Age, weight, hair and eye color and body measurements, clothing sizes.

PERSONAL WARDROBE

Clothing owned by an actor.

PERSONALITY

A celebrity.

PERSONIFICATION

Giving human attributes to non-human things.

PHOTO CALL

Actor call for publicity photos.

PHOTO DOUBLE

A film actor cast to perform in place of another.

PHYSICAL ASSET

A positive physical characteristic.

PHYSICAL DRAWBACK

A negative physical characteristic

PICK IT UP

To quicken the pace of a performance.

PICK UP CUES

To speak immediately without any pause between the cue and the actors line.

PICK UP

To start a scene from a place other than the beginning, usually due to a problem with the original shot.

PICTURE’S UP!

Verbal warning that the scene is about to begin.

PILOT PROGRAM

A program which is produced as one of a projected series to enable the producer to determine whether the producer will produce the series at a later date.

PILOT SEASON

Time of year (late winter through early spring) when initial episode of proposed television series are produced.

PILOT

Introductory episode of a TV show that is used by the producers to market more episodes to the networks.

PIXELATION

A type of stop-motion animation.

PLACES

Direction given to the actors and crew to take their positions for the performance.

PLATFORM STAGE

A performance area which is elevated above the normal stage floor.

PLAYBILL

Poster that advertises a play

PLAY

A script that is intended to be performed live.

PLAYWRIGHT

One who writes plays.

PLOT

The basic story or a script.

PM

Production manager.

POINTING

Giving special emphasis to something.

POLISHING REHEARSAL

Rehearsal that focuses on timing and tempo of a production.

PORNOGRAPHIC FILM

A film which is produced primarily to depict explicit sexual acts.

PORTFOLIO

A book which contains pictures and other examples of a model’s work.

POSE

A position or stance assumed for visual effect.

POST PRODUCTION

Activities that occur after filming has ended.

POSTCARD

A 4x6 card upon which is printed an actor’s photo and information about the actor. Used to remind casting people of an actor’s recent credits and other acting related news.

PRACTICAL

Scenery, props or lighting designed to be used by actors on stage in the same way the objects would be used off-stage.

PRATFALL

A stunt fall designed for comic effect.

PRE-PRODUCTION

Activities that occur prior to filming.

PRE-SCREEN

To audition for a casting director to determin if an actor should be auditioned for the director.

PREMIERE

The first official public screening of a production.

PREQUEL

A movie that presents the characters and events before the time of a previously filmed movie.

PRESENCE

The quality of looking and sounding as if he or she belongs in an performance venue.

PRESS AGENT

One who arranges advertising and publicity.

PRETEEN MODEL

A model under thirteen years old.

PREVIEW

A showing of a performance prior to the official premier showing.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE

Most important goal which motivates the basic actions of a character in a scene.

PRIME TIME: TV programming aired 8:00 to 11:00 PM; 7:00 to 10

00 PM Central and Mountain time zones.

PRINCIPAL ACTOR

A performer who speaks eleven or more lines or who performs a major role without lines.

PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHY

The filming of significant components of a movie which involve lead actors.

PRINCIPAL

A lead or starring role.

PRINT

Called by the director after a take that indicates the take is good enough to be printed.

PRINT AD

Advertisement in print media.

PRINT WORK

Modeling assignments for use in print media.

PRODUCER

An executive who manages the business aspects of a production.

PRODUCT CONFLICT

Inability to accept commercial work for a product because the actor is contractually associated with a competing product.

PRODUCT PLACEMENT

Diplaying specific products in a film or TV production usually in exchange for money.

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

A person responsible for various odd jobs.

PRODUCTION COMPANY

A company associated with the making of a production.

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

One responsible for practical matters of a production (ordering equipment, making travel and housing arrangements, etc.)

PRODUCTION NUMBER

Spectacular musical scene.

PRODUCTION REPORT

A daily report of the actual progress of a production.

PRODUCTION SCHEDULE

A detailed plan of the timing of activities associated with making a production.

PRODUCTION

Performance of a creative endeavor.

PROFILE LEFT

To face stage left at a 90 degree angle from the full open position.

PROFILE RIGHT

To face stage right at a 90 degree angle from the full open position.

PROFILE SHOT

A view of the side of a subject.

PROJECT (pro-ject’)

To speak loudly and clearly.

PROJECTION

Making voice, movements, and gestures clear to all sections of the house.

PROLOGUE

Introductory speech that introduces the performance, commenting on the action which will take place.

PROMO

Short for promotional. A brief commercial that promotes an upcoming production or event.

PROMOTIONAL MODEL

A model employed to promote products, services, companies or events.

PROMPT BOOK

Stage manager’s copy of the script. Contains all the blocking and technical cues.

PROMPT CORNER

desk at the side of the stage from which the stage manager runs the show.

PROMPT

To help an actor with lines.

PROMPTER

Teleprompter; a device used to supply lines to actors

PROMPTER

One who assists the actors with lines.

PROOF

A sample photograph for testing photo quality.

PROP TABLE

Backstage table upon which props are placed before use.

PROPS

Objects used by actor on the set.

PROPERTIES

Objects used by actor on the set.

PROPERTY ASSISTANT

Responsible for the placement and maintenance of props.

PROPERTY MASTER

Responsible for obtaining or constructing props and their use during the production.

PROSCENIUM ARCH

A large archway that separates the acting area from the audience area.

PROSTHETIC APPLIANCES

Three dimensional makeup piece applied to an actor to hide, enhance or create physical features.

PROTAGONIST

Main heroic character of a production.

PSA

Public Service Announcement.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

Any litarary work which is no longer protected by copyright law.

PUBLICIST

One who handles the public relations.

PUNCH LINE

Line designed to get a laugh.

PYROS

Short for Pyrotechnics.

PYROTECHNICS

Explosive special effects.

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QUARTER TURN

To turn 90 degrees.

QUARTER

Call given twenty minutes before curtain goes up.

QUICK CHANGE BOOTH

Temporary dressing rooms used for quick changes of costumes, wigs, makeup, etc.

QUICK CHANGE

A fast costume change.

QUIET ON THE SET

Direction given before shooting a scene instructing cast and crew to be quiet.

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RADIO COMMERCIAL

A commercial produced for radio broadcast.

RAIN BOX

A box containing dried peas or some other small pellet, which produces a rain-like sound effect when tipped.

RAKED STAGE

A sloping stage which is higher at the upstage end then at the downstage end.

REACTION SHOT

Shot showing characters reacting to an action or statement.

READ THROUGH

Usually the first rehearsal during which the cast and director sits and reads through the script.

READ

To read or audition for a part.

REAR ELEVATION

Scale drawing that depicts a rear view of the set.

REEL

A composite of brief clips from an actor’s film, TV, or commercial work.

REGIONAL COMMERCIAL

A TV commercial broadcast within one region or market in the US.

REGIONAL THEATRE

Permanent, nonprofit, professional theatre companies established outside of the major theatre centers.

REHEARSAL FEE

Fee to a performer for attending a rehearsal.

REHEARSAL

Session during which the cast, crew and director prepare a production for eventual performance.

REMOTE

TV or radio session held outside of the studio.

REPERTORY THEATRE

A theatre group which produces a number of productions throughout a season.

RERUN

Rebroadcast of a TV program.

RESCHEDULED BOOKING

A confirmed booking in which the day and time is changed from what was initially agreed upon.

RESIDUAL

Fee paid to a performer for rebroadcast of a commercial, film or TV program.

RESOLUTION

The point during a drama when the conflict is resolved.

RESUME’

An 8X10 sheet of paper that lists an actor’s pertinent artistic credits, training, personal statisics and special skills. It is usually attached to the back of a photo.

RETOUCH

To make corrections to imperfections on a photograph.

REVERSE ANGLE SHOT

A shot taken in the direction opposite that of the preceding shot. Used in dialogue scenes that show each character alternately speaking.

REVIEW

An article giving a critique of a performance.

REVOLVING STAGE SET

A circular platform that can be turned 360 degrees to show different sets.

REVUE

A production composed of sketches, comedy routines and dance numbers.

REWRITE

Changes in the script

RIGHT-TO-WORK-STATES

States which do not honor various union provisions.

RING DOWN

To close the front curtain.

RISER

A platform on stage.

ROAD COMPANY

Company of performers who tour to different cities to present their production.

ROCK MUSICAL

Musical that features rock music.

ROLE

A character played by an actor.

ROLLING!

Verbal cue that the film and audio tape is ready and rolling.

ROOM TONE

A recording which records existing noise at the location. Also called “wild track”.

ROSTRUM

A moveable, raised platform.

ROUNDS

Trips to casting offices which an actor visits on a regular basis.

ROYALTIES

Fee paid for the rights to perform a script.

RUN-THROUGH

An uninterrupted rehearsal of a scene, act or an entire play

RUN

The number of scheduled performances of a production.

RUNNING CREW

Group of people who perform all the technical tasks during the show.

RUNNING GAG

Comic business that is repeated throughout a production.

RUNNING LINES

Rehersal during which lines are rehearsed without blocking.

RUNWAY MODEL

Model who specializes in modeling clothes and accessories in runway shows.

RUNWAY

A long, narrow, raised platform that projects from a main stage into the auditorium upon which models display fashions.

RUSHES

First, unedited film footage processed for daily viewing as the shooting of the film progresses.

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SAE

Self-addressed envelope with appropriate postage affixed for return to the sender.

SAFE AREA

The area in camera ‘s viewfinder just outside of the “viewable” area in the viewfinder.

SAFETY CURTAIN

A fireproof curtain that separates the audience from the stage.

SAG

Screen Actors Guild. A professional union for television and film actors.

SANDBAG

Canvas bag filled with sand; used as a counterweight.

SATIRE

Literary device that crticizes beliefs, human failures, and social foibles in a light-hearted vein.

SCALE +10

Minimum payment plus 10% to cover the agent’s commission.

SCALE

Minimum amount paid to an actor as specified by union contract.

SCENE CHEWING

(“Chewing the scenery”) An over-the-top performance that dominates the scene.

SCENE NUMBER

A reference number designated for each scene in a production.

SCENE SHIFT

To move from one setting into another.

SCENE SHOP

The place where scenery is constructed.

SCENE

A division of a script, usually denoting a change in time or place

SCENE, FRENCH

Continuous action marked by the entrance or exit of one or more characters.

SCENERY

Everything on stage except the props.

SCHTICK

A repeated bit of comic business, routine, or gimmick used by a performer.

SCOUT

One who seeks out and recruits new talent.

SCREEN ACTORS GUILD

SAG. A professional union for television and film actors.

SCREEN TEST

A brief, filmed audition fo later evaluation by casting people.

SCREENING

An exhibition of a film.

SCREENPLAY

A script intended to be produced as a movie.

SCREENWRITER

A writer who develops a screenplay.

SCRIM

A gauzy curtain, used for special effects, that is transparent if lit from behind, but opaque when lit from the front.

SCRIPT

A written description of the action, dialogue, and camera shots for a screenplay, radio or stage play.

SCRIPT READING

Recitation of lines from a script for an audition or rehearsal.

SCRIPT SUPERVISOR

Crew member responsible for recording all script changes or actions throughout the production.

SEASONAL AD

Advertisement used during a specific season or holiday

SECOND TEAM

Actors who substitute for principal actors for camera blocking and technical setups.

SECOND UNIT DIRECTOR

Diector of the second unit.

SECOND UNIT

A crew responsible for filming shots of less importance than the main scenes (crowd scenes, scenery, etc.)

SEGUE

Transition from one shot to another.

SEQUEL

A film that begins at a time after a previous film ends.

SERIAL

A series that presents a story in regular installments.

SERIES REGULAR

A lead in a television series who appears in all the episodes.

SESSION FEE

Fee paid to an actor for a single airing of a commercial.

SET

Stage area that is visible to the audience.

SET DRESSER

Production staff member who is responsible for the props and furniture that are required on the set.

SET-UP

Each time the camera changes position.

SET

Location where a scene is being filmed.

SETTING

Time and place in which a performance is set.

SHARED SCENE

Scene in which two actors receive equal emphasis.

SHOOT

To record on film.

SHOOTING SCRIPT

Script from which a film is made. Contains numbered scenes and technical notes.

SHORT

A film under thirty minutes in length.

SHOT: A continuous block of unedited footage from a single point of view. Includes

extreme long-shot (ELS) also called an establishing shot; long-shot (LS); medium long-shot (MLS); medium or mid-shot (MS); medium close-up (MCU); close-up (CU); and extreme close-up (ECU).

SHOT COMPOSITION

Arrangement of elements within the frame.

SHOT/REVERSE SHOT

A sequence of three shots which gives the audience the opportunity to process the character’s reaction to what is being seen. The three shots are:

1) a person’s face;
2) what that person is looking at; and
3) the person again

SHOWCASE

A stage show specifically designed to promote actors by giving them a performance opportunity in front of casting people.

SIDES

Pages from a script used for auditions.

SIGHT GAG

Visual humor includes funny props, costumes, makeup, hairstyles, or movements.

SIGHTLINES

Areas of the acting area that is visible to various parts of the house.

SIGN-IN SHEET

A sheet of paper signed by an actor upon arriving for an audition.

SIGNATORY

A producer who develops a production under the terms of a union contract.

SILENT ON CAMERA (SOC)

when one does not have a speaking role.

SILENT PART

a part for which there are no spoken lines.

SINGLE CARD

A credit on screen in which only one performer’s name appears.

SITCOM

A comedy series with recurring lead characters in self-contained episodes.

SITUATION COMEDY

See Sitcom.

SIX-TO-TENS

Children between the ages of six and 10 years old.

SIZE CARD

A card filled out with personal information by the talent at an audition.

SKIN MONEY

Extra payment made to performers if nudity is required on stage.

SKIP

A large box which stores costumes and props for touring.

SLAPSTICK COMEDY

Comedy in which humor is derived from physical action.

SLAPSTICK

Two pieces of wood loosely joined at one end. Makes a loud “slap” noise when struck against something.

SLATE

Hinged board which, when clapped, provides a cue for editing sound and image. Roll number, scene number, and take number are written on the slate.

SLATE

In an audition, to orally stating one’s name and agency representation at the beginning of the audition.

SLEEPER

A movie unexpectedly and suddenly attains prominence and success.

SLOW BURN

Comic device in which disgust and anger slowly builds within the actor until the actor explodes in rage.

SLOW MOTION

Mmovements on screen are slower than they would be in actual life.

SLOW TAKE

Actor slowly looks out toward the audience.

SLUG LINE

Notation appearing in a script before each shot detailing the location, date, and time that the following action is to occur in.

SM

Stage manager.

SMOKE MACHINE

A machine which produces clouds of white non-toxic fog

SNEAK PREVIEW

Unannounced screening of a movie prior to the premiere

SOAP OPERA or SOAP

A melodramatic TV serial.

SOFT FOCUS

A slightly blurred achieved with a special filter or lens.

SOLILOQUY

A monolog reflecting the inner thoughts of the character.

SOUND CHECK

To test sound levels and equipment before performance.

SOUND EFFECTS

Sounds added during post-production.

SOUND MIXER

An audio engineer who assembles and combines the various sounds used in a production.

SOUND STUDIO

A recording studio.

SOUNDSTAGE

A large, soundproof building which allows filmmakers control over sound, light, temperature, visitors, and security for the filming of a production.

SOUNDTRACK

The audio component of a film.

SPAGHETTI WESTERN

A western filmed in Italy.

SPEAKING PART

a role for which there are spoken lines.

SPEC SCRIPT

A script written before any production agreement has been secured.

SPECIAL BUSINESS

specially directed action by an extra player.

SPECIAL EFFECT

A Technical effect.

SPEED THROUGH

A rehearsal during which actors recite their lines quickly without blocking. Used to assist actors with line memorization.

SPEED!

A verbal cue that the audio tape is up to the desired recording speed.

SPIKE MARK

A mark or piece of tape on the stage floor to define where scenery or a prop is to be placed.

SPIKING THE LENS

To look directly into the lens. Tends to destroy the illusion of realism.

SPINE

The motivational or structural unity of a scene, play, or character.

SPOKESMODEL

An individual who represents a product, service or company.

SPONSOR

An organization or person who finances an advertisement or performance.

SPOT ANNOUNCEMENT

An advertising or public service broadcast message between 10 to 120 seconds long.

SPOT

a commercial message.

SPOTLIGHT

(spot) A lighting device with a beam which is focused through one or more lenses.

SQUIB

A small explosive device,worn by actors, which when detonated will simulate the effect of a bullet or puncture wound or small explosion.

SQUIB

Small explosive charge detonated electrically by two attached wires connected to a remote switch and a direct-current power supply (battery); most used often in gunfight scenes to simulate a bullet hitting a target. If used on an actor, it is mounted on the underside of his shirt, on the front of a protective metal plate, and may be attached to a bag of fake blood that bursts when the squib is detonated.

STAGE

Area upon which a performance is presented.

STAGE

To present a performance.

STAGE BUSINESS

Small actions such as smoking, tying shoe laces, pouring a drink, buttoning a shirt.

STAGE CONVENTION

Unrealistic circumstances that the audience will accept as “real” within the context of the play.

STAGE CREW

Peopel responsible for moving props and and scenery during the show.

STAGE DIRECTION

Descriptions of the physical setting, atmosphere and actions which are included in the script.

STAGE DOOR

Backstage entrance to the theatre.

STAGE FRIGHT

Fear of speaking or performing in front of an audience.

STAGE HAND

Member of the stage crew.

STAGE LEFT

Left side of the stage when facing the audience.

STAGE MANAGER

Responsible for rehearsals and maintaining all the technical aspects and artistic integrity of a production once the performance has begun.

STAGE PARENT

Overly involved parent of a young actor.

STAGE READINGS

Reading a script before an audience. Includes dramatic interpretation, but no blocking, sets or technical effects.

STAGE RIGHT

Right side of the stage when facing the audience.

STAGE WAIT

A dramatic pause used to heighten suspense.

STAGE WHISPER

An acting technique by which an actor gives the impression of whispering yet is actually speaking loudly enough to be heard by the entire audience.

STALLS

Floor level seating area.

STAND-BY

A warning given to crews that a cue needs to be executed soon.

STAND-IN

Actor who substitutes for a principal actor for camera blocking and technical setups.

STANDARD UNION CONTRACT

Standard union approved contract which specifies base levels of pay, benefits and other terms provided by the producers in exchangge for an actor’s services.

STANDBY

Actor who is prepared to substitute for a lead actor in case the lead is unable to perform.

STAR TREATMENT

Special agreed upon services provided to a star performer.

STAR

A widely known actor.

STARRING

A lead role.

STEADICAM

A special handheld camera which is designed to reduce the effects of the camera operator’s body movements.

STEAL A SCENE

To attract audience attention that should be on another actor.

STEAL

To move on-stage without attracting the audience’s attention.

STICKS

Slate or clapboard upon which information about a film take is displayed. The clapboard is filmed at the beginning of each take to easily identify the film segment for editing.

STILL

A photograph derived from a motion picture frame.

STOP MOTION

Animation in which objects are filmed frame-by-frame with slight alterations of position from frame to frame.

STORYBOARD

A series of illustrations that depict the action of a production.

STORYLINE

A brief summary of a production.

STRAIGHT LINE

Dialog that sets up a punch line so it will get a laugh.

STRAIGHT MAN

One who delivers straight lines to a comic.

STRIKE

To remove scenery, props and lights from the stage.

STUDIO

A building or room in which a visual or audio production is produced. Also, a company that makes films.

STUNT COORDINATOR

A person responsible for planning, designing and supervising stunts.

STUNT DOUBLE

A stuntperson who performs stunts in place of a principal actor.

STUNT PERFORMER

An actor who is trained and knowledgeable in performing stunts.

STUNT

A dangerous piece of physical action.

SUBPLOT

Secondary plot in a script.

SUBSTITUTION

An acting technique by which the actor, uses a personal circumstance that is different from the given circumstances of the play. ( example; recalling the shock of diving into a frigid stream to substitute for the reaction of shock upon hearing the character’s son had been murdered.).

SUBTEXT

Implicit meaning of the text of a script.

SUMMER STOCK

A theatre group which produces a number of productions throughout the summer vacation season.

SUPER MODEL

A model who is readily recognized by the general public.

SUPER OBJECTIVE

The script writer’s objective in writing the play.

SUPERNUMERARY

An extra who has no lines.

SUPPORTING

A non-starring, but significant role in a film.

SWING

A member of the singing and dancing chorus who is prepared to fill in for another performer who is unable to perform.

SYNDICATION

A system of broadcasting programs through independent distributors.

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TABLE WORK

Rehearsals during which the script is read, usually around a table, in which interpretation and character are discussed.

TAFT-HARTLEY ACT

A federal statute which allows a non-union actor to work at a union job for 30 days before being required to join a union.

TAG LINE

The final line of a scene or act just before the closing of the curtain.

TAKE

An unedited performance of a filmed scene.

TAKE 5

Take a five minute break.

TALENT AGENT

A individual who acts as a performer’s business representative by securing auditions, handling contracts and pay in exchange for a percentage of the performer’s earning.

TALENT AGENCY

A company that represents talent.

TALENT MANAGER

Individual who advises and counsels performers in aspects of their careers. Works in conjunction with each performer’s agents, publicists, business managers, attorneys others.

TALENT SCOUT

an agent who seeks out talented people to work in the acting or modeling business.

TALENT SEARCH

Scouting for new talent.

TALENT

An individual with specific skills.

TAPE

A demo reel.

TEAR SHEETS

Samples retained from various model assignments featured in print material.

TEASER

A preview of a program used to enticing the listener to watch the program.

TECH REHEARSAL

A rehearsal in which technical elements of a production are tried out.

TECHIE

A stage technician.

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Individual responsible for executing the stage set and for controlling the set during a performance.

TEEN MODEL

A model between the ages of 13 and 17.

TELEPLAY

A script written to be produced for television.

TELEPROMPTER

A device which allows a performer to read a script while looking into the camera lens.

TELESCOPING

Acting technique in which one actor speaks before another is finished.

TEMPO

Rate of speed at which a scene is played.

TEST

To evaluate a talent or performer.

TEXT

The words of a script.

THEATER

Form of performance that tells a story through a mix of acting, dance, mime, verbal narrative and song.

THEATRE IN THE ROUND

Performance in which the stage is surrounded on all sides by the audience.

THEME

A central concept carried throughout a production.

THESPIAN

An actor.

THREE BELLS!

Audible warning for QUIET when a scene about to be filmed.

THREE QUARTERS LEFT

To face stage left in a position halfway between full back and left profile.

THREE-QUARTERS RIGHT

To face stage right in a position halfway between full back and right profile.

THROUGH-LINE

Unifying element of a scene, act or play.

THROW AWAY

Underplay a moment in a scene

THRUST STAGE

Acting area that extends out into the audience permitting a view from three sides.

THUNDER SHEET

Large suspended sheet of metal which when shaken produces a thunder-like rumble

TIGHT SHOT

To frame of a shot with little or no space around the central figure.

TIME SHEET

A written record of a performer’s time of arrival, breaks and time of departure.

TIMING

Choosing the right moment to deliver a line or perform an action for maximum effect.

TOP

To deliver a line more energetically than the line delivery preceding it.

TRACKING SHOT

A shot taken with a mobile camera mounted on a dolly or a moving vehicle.

TRADE SHOW

A promotional event held in a convention center in which products marketed to retailers.

TRADES

Newspapers and periodicals feature information about the entertainment industry.

TRAGEDY

Dramatic form in which the protagonist suffers a grave loss or death at the end. Depicts humans as victims of destiny. Explores profound themes.

TRAGI-COMEDY

A form of tragedy which, though ending unhappily, contains comic elements and some possibility of a happy ending.

TRAILER

An filmed advertisement for a movie which contains scenes from the film.

TRAP

An opening in the stage floor, covered by a flooring piece or scenery, through which actors can enter and exit.

TRAVEL-TIME

Fee paid for time spent commuting to a non-studio film location.

TRAVELER

A horizontally drawn curtain.

TRAVELLING MATTE SHOT

(Bluescreen, Greenscreen) A shot in which action is digitally superimposed on a seperately filmed background.

TREADS

A stage staircase or set of steps.

TREATMENT

A narrative outline of a dramatic work for cinema or broadcast. See Bible.

TREATMENT

An abridged script ; longer than a synopsis . It consists of a summary of each major scene of a proposed movie and descriptions of the significant characters and may even include snippets of dialogue. While a complete script is around 100 pages, a treatment is closer to 10.

TREATMENT

Written outline of a script. Approximately 10 pages long; is composed of a summary of major scenes, descriptions of the significant characters and some select dialogue.

TRILOGY

A series of three movies which are closely connected by plot.

TRIO

Group of three singers.

TRIPOD

A stand with three legs which is used to support something.

TROD THE BOARDS

To be a professional actor.

TROUPE

A company of actors.

TRUCK

A platform on wheels upon which scenery is mounted and rolled into position on stage.

TRUCKING SHOT

Any moving shot where a camera is mounted on a movable vehicle.

TRUNK SHOW

A travelling fashion show.

TURN IN

To face upstage away from the audience.

TURN OUT

To face downstage toward the audience.

TURNAROUND

To shoot a scene from another direction.

TURNAROUND

The number of hours between dismissal one day and call time the next day.

TURNING POINT (ALSO REVERSAL, PERIPETY)

Point of plot reversal on or near the climax

TWEAK

To make small adjustments.

TWO SHOT

A medium close-up shot of two people.

TYPE

A character stereotype.

TYPECAST

To cast a role based upon specific physical characteristics or likeness to a specific dramatic type. To cast an actor in a role suitable to their own personality the actor’s reputation for specializing in that kind of role.

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UGLY-UP

To make less attractive.

UNDER 5

A role with five lines or less.

UNDER-SIXES

Children under 6 years of age.

UNDERCUT

To speak a line softer than the previous line.

UNDERPLAY

To speak with a softer tone and act with less energy one might otherwise expect to do.

UNDERSTUDY

A performer prepared to perform a lead role if the lead actor is unable to perform.

UNION CARD

A union membership card.

UNION SCALE

A schedule of minimum payments as defined by a union contract.

UNION MEMBER

An individual who has joined a union.

UNION:

A labor organization authorized to protect the rights of members by negotiating pay scales, benefits and work conditions with employers. The main actor unions are: AEA (Equity) Actors Equity Association, SAG-AFTRA: Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of TV and Radio Artists, AGMA: Associated Guild of Musical Artists, AGVA: Associated Guild of Variety Artists.

UNIT OF ACTION

A distinct division of action marked by a significant change in the course of action.

UNIT PRODUCTION MANAGER

Individual responsible for the administration of a specific movie.

UNIT SET

A set that can represent several different settings by making only slight changes to scenic elements.

UNITIES

Time, place and action. Three elements of dramatic construction.

UPGRADE

Promoting an extra performer to the category of principal performer.

UPLIGHT

Light from below the actors.

UPM

Unit production manager.

UPPER CIRCLE

Highest balcony in the auditorium. Also known as the GODS.

UPSTAGE

Toward the back of the stage.

UPSTAGE

To draw the audiences attention onto oneself at the expense of another performer in the scene

UPSTAGING

To deliberately cross to a place upstage of another performer thus forcing the other performer to turn away from the audience in order to talk with the upstager.

USE CYCLE

any 13-week period during which a commercial is aired.

USHERS

Members of Front-of-House staff who attend to audience members.

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V.O.

Voice over.

VARIETY PROGRAM

A production that consists of a mixture of songs, music, dance, comic sketches and specialty acts.

VAUDEVILLE

Type of American theatre that combined comedy, song, dance, and other entertainment. Faded from popularity in the 1930s with the introduction of sound movies.

VHS

1/2" videocassette format.

VIDEO AUDITION

An audition that is videotaped for review at a later date.

VIDEO CLIP

A segment of videotape.

VISUAL CUE

A cue taken from the action on stage rather than being cued by the stage manager.

VITAL STATISTICS

Personal, physical traits such as date of birth, hair and eye color, body measurements.

VOCAL OR DIALOGUE COACH

Someone hired to coach performers in vocal or script delivery techniques.

VOICE LESSONS

Instruction in voice quality.

VOICE-OVER (VO)

Performance that consists solely of recording a performers voice.

VOICE-OVER AGENT

A talent agent submitting clients for voice-over work.

VOICE-OVER ARTIST

An actor who performs solely with his/her voice.

VOMITORY

An specially designed performer entrance that allows actors to enter and exit through the lower seating areas near the stage.

VOUCHER

A form used to record arrival and departure times and pay rates. This information is required in order to get properly paid.

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W/N

Will notify. A call sheet notation indicating that an actor will probably work that day though the specific time has not been decided.

W

A call sheet notation indicating that an actor is working that day.

WAITING ROOM

Green room. Waiting area for talent before they are called to perform.

WAIVERS

Union permission allowing deviation from standard contract terms.

WALK-ON

A small role with no lines.

WALK-THROUGH

A rehearsal in which the actors go through the blocking.

WALKAWAY

A meal break in which cast and crew get a meal on their own.

WALLA WALLA

General background crowd noise.

WARDROBE ALLOWANCE

A fee paid to talent for the use and cleaning of the talent’s own clothing.

WARDROBE ASSISTANT

Individuals who assis with selection and care of the wardrobe.

WARDROBE CALL

An assigned time and place for a wardrobe fitting.

WARDROBE

Clothing a performer wears for rehearsals and the performance.

WASH LIGHT

A light that illuminates the entire acting area.

WEATHER DAY

A day during which an outdoor shoot takes place. A half-days wage is paid for each day that shooting does not take place due to bad weather.

WESTERN

(Oater) A film which is set in the United States late 19th-century “Wild West”.

WGA

Writers guild of America.

WHIP PAN

An extremely fast pan which blurs motion.

WIDE-ANGLE LENS

A lens that has a focal length shorter than normal. This allows a wider than normal area to be photographed.

WILD SPOT

A commercial that runs on a non-network station on a station-by-station basis in different markets across the country.

WILD

Recorded out of sequence or isolated from the rest of the scene.

WIND MACHINE

A large fan for creating wind on the set.

WINGS

Backstage areas left and right of the acting area.

WIPE

A transition device in which a new image replaces an existing image as the new image fills the screen from left to right or right to left of the screen.

WORK LIGHTS

lights that illuminate the stage when there is no performance.

WORKING TITLE

Name by which a production is known while it is being made. This can be different from the title given to the production when it is released.

WORKSHOP

An acting class which is not part of a formal actor training program.

WRANGLER

One who is responsible for the care and control of animals used for a production.

WRAP PARTY

A party following the completion of principal photography.

WRAP

To complete a day’s filming.

WRITER

Someone who creates a written work.

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XFADE

CROSS FADE.

XXX

A designation for a production that features a large amount of explicit sex.

YOUTH THEATRE

Theatre performed by young people.

Z-CARDS

Composite.

ZED CARD

A composite card used by a commercial actor or model. frequently contains multiple shots showing the actor or model demonstrating different looks.

ZOOM

To change the field of view through the use of an adjustable lens.

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