Cue

Definition

A cue is a signal or prompt used in theatre to indicate when an actor should begin a line, action, or response. It serves as a crucial communication tool that helps ensure the timing and flow of the performance. Cues can be given through various methods, including verbal commands, physical actions, or technical signals, linking actors and crew in a synchronized effort to create a cohesive production.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cues are essential for maintaining the rhythm and pacing of a performance, allowing actors to react and interact in real time.
2. Cues can be indicated through various forms such as dialogue lines, music changes, lighting shifts, or even specific gestures from stage management.
3. In large productions, cues are meticulously documented in cue sheets to ensure every element is timed perfectly.
4. Understanding and timing cues effectively can significantly impact an actor's performance and the overall audience experience.
5. Cues have evolved over time with technology; for instance, modern productions may use computerized lighting and sound systems that require precise digital cues.

Review Questions

• How do cues contribute to the overall timing and flow of a theatrical performance?
  • Cues play a vital role in the timing and flow of a theatrical performance by providing actors with specific signals to initiate lines or actions. This synchronization helps maintain the rhythm of the show and ensures that transitions between scenes occur smoothly. When cues are followed correctly, they enhance the overall coherence of the narrative, allowing audiences to engage fully with the story being told.
• What methods can be employed to signal cues during a production, and why is this important?
  • Cues can be signaled using various methods such as verbal prompts, visual signals from stage management, or changes in sound or lighting. Each method serves its purpose depending on the production's requirements and helps maintain continuity. Using consistent signaling methods is crucial because it fosters effective communication among cast and crew, minimizing confusion and ensuring that performances run seamlessly.
• Evaluate how the integration of technology in modern productions affects the use of cues compared to traditional methods.
  • The integration of technology in modern productions has transformed how cues are utilized compared to traditional methods. In contemporary theatre, computerized lighting and sound systems allow for more precise and complex cueing that can synchronize multiple elements instantly. This advancement increases production value but also requires actors and crew to adapt to new systems for timing. While traditional cueing relied heavily on human interaction, today's technology provides a level of automation that enhances precision but may introduce new challenges in communication during live performances.

Related terms

Prompt: A prompt is a reminder or cue provided to an actor, often used when they forget their lines or actions during a performance.

Blocking: Blocking refers to the precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance, which often involves cues for movement and positioning on stage.

Technical Rehearsal: A technical rehearsal is a run-through of a production that focuses on the integration of technical elements, including cues for lighting, sound, and other effects.