WHAT MAKES THEATRE?

Mr. French – Theatre I

Playwright

An author of plays, a dramatist.

Producer

A person responsible for the financial and managerial aspects of staging a play, opera, etc., or making a film or broadcast.

Director Has responsibility for the overall

practical and creative interpretation of a dramatic script or musical score. They are involved at all stages of the process, from the design and pre-production stages and rehearsal right through to the final performance.

Designers Create the look and atmosphere of

a show through a variety of elements. Work directly with the director to achieve representation of the production’s concept.

Scenic Designer The set designer's job is to design the

physical surroundings in which the action of the play will take place. The overall look of the set also gives the audience information about the director's concept of the production.

Lighting Designer Works with the director, choreographer, set

designer, costume designer, and sound designer to create the lighting, atmosphere, and time of day for the production in response to the text, while keeping in mind issues of visibility, safety, and cost.

Sound Designer Responsible for everything the audience

hears.  Exactly what that entails can vary considerably, depending on the type of show, the performers in the show and the performance venue. Works closely with the director to create sound effects and music.

Costume Designer Costume designers create the look of each

character by designing clothes and accessories the actors will wear in performance. Depending on their style and complexity, costumes may be made, bought, revamped out of existing stock or rented. Their designs need to faithfully reflect the personalities of the characters in the script. Often designs makeup as well.

Makeup Designer Creates makeup plans for special

character looks, effects, or simply to counteract the effects of harsh theatrical lighting. Also handles bald caps, hairpieces, and wigs. Works closely with the Costume Designer

Dramaturg In charge of historical and societal

research for the production team. Finds information to make the production realistic and/or historically accurate.

The Actor Uses movement, voice, and

expression to interpret and portray a character created in a script. Can also create characters spontaneously in improvisational theatre. Requires skill in a variety of areas and a keen personal self-awareness.

You’re not the boss of me!