Genres of Theatre Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a comedy?

A story performed by one actor

A light and amusing play that has a happy ending (correct)

Comedy that relies on physical movement

A play with a serious subject matter

What is a drama?

A play which has a serious subject matter but does not necessarily have a disastrous end

What defines a farce?

A comedy with exaggerated characterizations, abundant physical or visual humor, and an improbable plot

What is melodrama?

A dramatic form popular because of cliff-hanging plots, heart-tugging emotional appeal, and a strongly moralistic tone Signup and view all the answers

What is a monologue?

A story, speech, or scene performed by one actor Signup and view all the answers

What is physical comedy?

Comedy that relies on the physical movement of the actor to evoke laughter Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a tragedy?

A form of drama in which the main character suffers a disaster Signup and view all the answers

What is a musical?

A type of theatre containing music, song, and sometimes dance Signup and view all the answers

What is pantomime?

To act without words through facial expression and gesture Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Comedy

A light-hearted theatrical genre designed to amuse and entertain.
Typically features a happy ending.

Drama

Focuses on serious themes and subject matter.
Does not necessarily conclude with a tragic ending.

Farce

A subgenre of comedy characterized by absurd and exaggerated situations.
Utilizes visual and physical humor along with an improbable plot.

Melodrama

Features emotionally charged storytelling with cliffhanger plots.
Celebrates virtue and conveys a strong moral message.

Monologue

A performance consisting of a story, speech, or scene delivered by a single actor.
Serves to explore character thoughts or narrate events.

Physical Comedy

A comedic style that emphasizes the physical actions and movements of actors.
Designed to evoke laughter through visual gags and physical antics.

Tragedy

A dramatic form centered on the misfortunes of the main character.
Often concludes with a significant disaster or downfall.

Musical

A theatrical genre that combines music, song, and sometimes dance.
Aims to tell a story through performance alongside musical elements.

Pantomime

A form of theatrical expression that conveys meaning without spoken words.
Relies on gestures and facial expressions to communicate emotions and narratives.

Description

Explore the key genres of theatre with this flashcard quiz. Learn definitions and characteristics of different types like comedy, drama, farce, and melodrama. Perfect for theatre students and enthusiasts alike!