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Theatre Terms

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Theatre Terms (A-Z) Definition
BARN DOORS An apparatus with adjustable flaps, usually 2, 4 or 8, that attaches to the front of a lighting instrument. It is used to block or shape the beam--for example, to keep light from hitting the front or side edge of the stage.
BASIC SITUATION The central dramatic situation in a play.
BASS Lower end of the musical scale. In acoustics, the range (below about 200Hz) in which there are difficulties, principally in the reproduction of sound, due to the large wavelengths involved.
BATTEN

A batten is a pipe suspended above the stage or audience, on which lighting fixtures, theatrical scenery, and theatrer drapes and stage curtains may be hung. Battens that are located above a stage can usually be lowered to the stage (flown in) or raised into a fly tower above the stage (flown out) by a fly system.

Battens can also be made of strips of wood, but only for relatively lightweight purposes.
 

 
BEAM

In the theatre, the width of the light projected by a lighting instrument. A followspot, for example, produces a narrow beam that is typically focused to follow an actor on the stage. 
BEAM ANGLE The angle of the cone of light produced by a instrument. Defined as the angle within which the lowest intensity in a beam of light from a instrument is not less than one-tenth of the maximum.
BEAM LIGHT or BEAM LUMINAIRE

Beam lights are so called because they can be seen as a beam of light that illuminates a specific area of the stage.

They can be used to back-light soloists or create large, sweeping looks across the stage, or serve the single purpose of having a bright, defining beam of light cutting across the stage.

Beam lights highlight actors' movements or set transitions, adding drama to the narrative. In high-tension scenes, quick beam changes enhance the emotional rhythm of the performance.

Specifically:

  1. Creating Layered Visual Effects. By working in conjunction with other types of lighting, beam lights can effectively divide stage spaces. For example, intersecting beams can produce layered visual effects, enhancing the depth and dimensionality of scenes.
  2. Enhancing Stage Atmosphere. The dynamic changes and shapes of beam lights can quickly adapt to the needs of a narrative, creating the desired atmosphere.
  3. Strengthening Visual Focus. With their concentrated light, beam lights are useful for drawing attention to key elements on stage. Whether highlighting a soloist or a pivotal prop, beam lights ensure the audience’s focus is exactly where it needs to be.
  4. Generating Dynamic Visual Effects. Through rapid movement and color changes, beam lights can produce dynamic effects, such as beam arrays, sweeping lights, and multidimensional rotations. These effects are especially impactful in concerts, gala events, and large-scale productions.
  5. Integrating with Special Effects Equipment. Beam lights often work in tandem with fog machines, hazers, and laser lights. The scattering of light through smoke makes the beam paths more visible, further enhancing the overall visual effect.
BEAM PROJECTOR Flood instrument which uses a parabolic reflector and a low voltage high intensity lamp to produce an intense near-parallel beam. Also known as a Beamlight.
BEDROOM FARCE A farce in which a risque bedroom scene is exploited.
BELOW 1) Downstage. 2) Under the stage.
BENEFIT A theatrical performance, the profits of which are given to some cause or person.
BETWEEN ENGAGEMENTS Unemployed as an actor.
BILL A playbill or program distributed at a theatre.
BILLING Acting credit, particularly on a poster, marquee, or in an ad.
BIRDIE A compact display lighting instrument containing a Par 16 lamp. So called because it is similar to, but much smaller than, the Parcan, and is hence (in a play on golf terms) "one under Par."
BIT A very minor speaking or silent role. Hence, bit actor, bit part.
BIT ACTOR

A very minor speaking or silent role. Hence, bit actor, bit part.
BIT PART

A very minor speaking or silent role. Hence, bit actor, bit part.
BLACK Black velvet or velour curtain or drape used to mask the sides or tops of the stage.
BLACK BOX An unadorned performance space, typically a large room with four walls and no assigned seating or playing areas. Walls are typically painted black, hence the name. The black box is popular because it can be configured in many different ways, with actors on the floor, or on a platform; the audience can also be seated on the floor or on platforms.