Dictionary

libretto: The "book" or chapter outline of a play or musical that includes the lyrics and a brief play-by-play explanation of each scene.

matinee: An afternoon performance.

meta-theater: A method of presenting a play or musical that in part invites audience participation with a mix of unscripted dialogue by the actors.

mezzanine: The lowest rows of a balcony setting.

musical: Often defined as a play that incorporates song and dialogue along with dance that are all necessary components to the plot or to the entertainment factor. Musicals can be comical, farcical or dramatic.

musical play: A play that incorporates lyrics and song or dance but could be entertaining on its own with just dialogue.

original Broadway cast (OBC): The cast of a Broadway play or musical appearing on opening night.

Off-Broadway: Located around Manhattan and comprised of smaller theaters that present plays and musicals that are out of the mainstream in style and content.

Off-Off-Broadway: Productions that are typically well beyond the norm of the mainstream and that are produced in clubs, halls and intimate theaters in New York City.

orchestra seating: Considered by some to be the best seats in the house, they're on the main floor at the front of the stage.