The document discusses conventions in theatre that set the logic and style of a play's performance. Conventions determine the degree of abstraction and must remain consistent. Presentational conventions deliberately break realism through devices like narration or costume changes on stage. Representational conventions aim for realism using techniques like a fourth wall. Playwrights, directors, designers, and actors all utilize conventions to shape the production through techniques like narration, symbolic costumes, and direct audience address. Conventions establish the type and style of a play.

1. Conventions in Theatre
The Rules by Which the
Play is Performed

2. Conventions set up logic
• Conventions set the degree of abstraction the
play will have. Some plays try to replicate
reality, while some do not.
• Conventions should be consistent, as adding
or taking them away half through a show
throws the logic of the play.

3. Presentational Devices
A deliberate attempt to be “theatrical”
• Use of Narrator or Chorus
• Script written for actors to play multiple roles
• Seeing Actors change costumes and sets in
view of the audience
• Personification
• “Theatre Magic” is shown or obvious

4. Representational
A definite attempt to look or feel realistic
• Use of the 4th Wall
• Realistic settings and costuming
• Logical sequence of time
• Actors play one role throughout
• “Theatre Magic” is hidden

5. Conventions used by Playwrights
• Narration
• Flash Backs/Forward
• Song and Music
• Personification
• The passage of stage time vs. Plot time

6. Conventions Used by Directors
• Suggestive Scenery or costuming
• Pantomime
• Stylized movement
• Deliberate tempo of scenes
• Split scenes / Conversations

7. Conventions used by Designers
• Sets that are cut away to reveal the interior
• Use of light and sound to replicate reality
• Illusion that beyond the set there is more
• Creation of set pieces that can become many
things.
• A set piece or costume that is symbolic.

8. Conventions Used by Actors
Use of the 4th Wall
Endowment
Sense Memory
Direct Audience Address
Aside

9. Conventions Create Style
• Plays of a type with have conventions that
serve that type – Realistic, Abstract, Era
• Plays can have realistic and abstract
conventions creating their own style.
• Some conventions work with some audiences,
some do not – direction is important.