Prompt Side (PS)		A book that consists of both the script and lyrics
Opposite Prompt (OP)		An intercom system consisting of a headset earpiece, microphone and beltpack used for communication and co-ordination of technical departments during a performance
Wing		Breaking character on stage, usually identified by hysterical laughter
Chookas		Stage Right
Macbeth		A single light left on the stage in a theatre at closing - superstition says it is left out for the theatre ghosts to perform
Ghost Light		Good Luck
Swing		The system above the stage of the theatre, consisting of the FLY TOWER, FLY FLOORS, COUNTERWEIGHT systems, PULLEYs, LINES etc.
Block		the rehearsal process of developing the main action/direction in scenes, usually with very little character and intention work
Spike		An actor who gives a completely hammy and over-the-top performance
Beginners		The big showstopping number in the musical. In Modern theatre this tends to be the Act 1 Finale
Bump In/Out		A full rehearsal, with all technical and creative elements brought together. The performance as it will be 'on the night'.
Libretto		The sides of the stage that are out of the audience's view. Actors wait here for their entrances, and other stuff for the show, such as scenery and props are stored here.
Calling the Show		The process of giving verbal cues to the lighting, sound, fly operators and stage crew during the performance. Usually done from the prompt corner by the stage manager. The cues are written in the prompt script. A 'STANDBY' cue is given first, so that the operators are ready for the actual cue.
Comms (cans)		A reading of the script done without looking at or studying that script in advance. Sometimes used at auditions.
Chewing the Scenery		being able to feel the light on your face, to know when you are correctly standing in a spotlight or lit area, and when you are standing just out of it.
Corpsing		understudies who learn multiple roles/tracks in a show. If someone/multiple performers go down then actors are able to swing into the appropriate spots
Dress rehearsal		An extension of the performance due to audience demand. Often seen in jukebox musicals such as “Mamma Mia” and “We Will Rock You”.
Encore		the five-minute call for performers to be in place for the start of the show.
ENTRACTE / ENTR'ACTE		To prepare or dismantle the set in the theatre
Finding Your Light		A performer who knows all of the material for a lead role—and goes on if the principal actor is out—but does not otherwise perform in the show.
Flies		An 'overture' to begin the second part or act of a performance. Often used now to describe any interval music.
Cold Read		set placement for items that move on and off stage, marked with tape.
Off Book		Bad Luck
Sitzprobe		Another word for memorized. A rehearsal off book will be one in which the actors do not use scripts.
11 o'Clock Number		Stage Left- where the stage manager is stationed for the show
Standby		A term with German origins, it translates to “seated rehearsal.” This is typically the first rehearsal when the orchestra and the cast sing through the show in its entirety while sitting at music stands.