Cue

Definition

A cue is a signal or prompt that directs an actor or performer to begin a specific action or dialogue during a production. This term is crucial in the flow of performance, ensuring that actors respond in sync with the timing of the script and the overall production. Cues can be verbal or non-verbal, and they help maintain the rhythm and pacing of the scene while allowing actors to deliver their lines and actions accurately.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cues are essential for keeping the performance organized and ensuring that all elements, such as dialogue, sound effects, and lighting, happen in harmony.
2. In live productions, cues often come from stage managers or directors, who monitor the timing and deliver signals when it’s time for an actor to enter or deliver a line.
3. Cues can also be part of a cue sheet, which lists all the important cues needed throughout a scene for actors and crew members.
4. Actors are trained to listen for cues, as they need to be aware not only of their lines but also of cues given by other actors or production staff.
5. The effectiveness of cues can significantly impact the audience's experience, as seamless transitions and timely responses create a more engaging performance.

Review Questions

• How do cues contribute to the overall pacing and timing of a production?
  • Cues play a vital role in maintaining the pacing and timing of a production by ensuring that actors respond appropriately to prompts. When cues are executed effectively, they create a smooth flow between dialogue, actions, and technical elements such as lighting and sound. This synchronization enhances the audience's experience by allowing them to become immersed in the story without disruptions.
• Discuss how an actor's ability to follow cues can impact their performance quality.
  • An actor's ability to follow cues is crucial for delivering a high-quality performance. When actors are attentive to cues, they can react naturally to changes in the scene, leading to more authentic interactions with fellow performers. Failure to respond correctly to cues can result in awkward pauses or missed opportunities for dramatic impact, diminishing the overall effectiveness of the performance.
• Evaluate the relationship between cues and the roles of directors and stage managers in a production.
  • The relationship between cues and the roles of directors and stage managers is integral to the success of any production. Directors are responsible for establishing the vision and timing of cues during rehearsals, while stage managers ensure that these cues are executed seamlessly during performances. Effective communication between directors, stage managers, and actors regarding cues helps create a cohesive experience that captures the audience's attention and enhances the storytelling process.

Related terms

Blocking: The precise staging of actors to facilitate the performance, which includes their movements, positions, and interactions on stage.

Call Sheet: A document provided to cast and crew that outlines the schedule for each day of filming, including call times and important cues for scenes.

Prompt: A reminder or line provided to an actor to help them remember their next line or action during a performance.