Elements of Drama

Dialogue, the verbal exchanges between characters, functions to advance the plot, establish setting, and most importantly, reveal characters’ thoughts and emotional states.

Plot, character, and theme are generally defined the same way as they are for fiction.

Stage directions are the playwright’s written instructions on how actors should move and behave, including facial expressions and how to speak a line.

Staging is a play’s visual detail, encompassing blocking (actors’ positions), stage business (nonverbal gestures/movements), scenic background, props, costumes, lighting, and sound effects. Drama is a staged art, written to be performed.