theatre roles

• Playwright


  Writing the script of the play, including the dialogue and stage directions.
• Understudy


  Learning a part, including lines and movement, so they are able to take over a role for someone if needed when there is a planned or unexpected absence.
• Performer


  Appearing in a production, for example by acting, dancing or singing. Creating a performance or assuming a role on stage in front of an audience.
• Stage Manager


  Running the backstage elements of the play and supervising the backstage crew. Organising the rehearsal schedule and keeping lists of props and other technical needs. Creating a prompt book and calling the cues for the performance.
• Director


  Overseeing the creative aspects of the production. Developing a 'concept' or central idea for the production. Liaising with designers, rehearsing the actors and ensuring that all technical elements of the play are ready. Giving 'notes' to the actors to help improve their performances and agreeing the blocking of the actors.
• Theatre Manager


  Running the theatre building, including overseeing the Front of House staff (ushers) and the box office staff who sell the tickets.
• Technicians


  Operating the technical equipment, such as the lighting and sound boards, during the performance.
• Sound Designer


  Designing the sound required for the performance, which may include music and sound effects. Considering if amplification such as the use of microphones, is needed, and creating a sound plot.
• Set Designer


  Designing the set of the play and the set dressing (objects placed on the stage). Providing sketches and other design materials before overseeing the creation of the set.
• Costume Designer


  Designing what the actors wear on stage. Making sure that costumes are appropriate for the style and period of the piece. Ensuring the costumes fit the actors.
• Lighting Designer


  Designing the lighting states and effects that will be used in a performance. Understanding the technical capabilities of the theatre and creating a lighting plot.
• Puppet designer


  Designing the puppets for a production, taking into account the style of puppets and how they will be operated.