Drama

:This article refers to the art form. For the town, see Drama, Greece.

The difference between drama and theatre

In the field of theatrical performance and dramatic expression, there is a tendency to use the terms "drama" and "theater" synonomously. The terms are problematic and can be open to confusing usage. Strictly speaking, however, the terms refer to different qualities or aspects of dramatic expression. Note this following quote from Bernie Warren:

Related Topics:
Theater - Bernie Warren

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:Most people tend to equate drama with theater. However, there are subtle but important differences between the two. Theater is a collective art. Theater requires many people — actors, writers, designers, technicians, etc. — all working together in a period of rehearsal and creative exploration towards a common goal. Whatever the benefits experienced by participants along the way, theater is evaluated by how well the performance communicates to its audience.

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:Drama is an individual pursuit undertaken within a social context. Defined by human action and interaction, drama is primarily concerned with what happens to participants while they are engaged in activity. It is an extension of children’s play and, like that play, is often free and spontaneous. Drama has no fixed end product, no right or wrong way of doing. As a result, its effects, unlike theater performances, are often unique and unrepeatable. Above all, dramatic experience is a very human activity— one that reaffirms “I exist. My life has meaning.”

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:(Bernie Warren with Tim Dunne, Drama Games. Captus Press, 1989, p.2)

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Drama (or dramatization) could also be a prose or verse composition telling a story which shows life or character through conflict and emotions. It is usually performed by actors and actresses in a theatrical setting, but can also refer to pre-recorded television programs or opera.

Related Topics:
Prose - Verse - Actors and actresses - Theatrical - Opera

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In sum, "drama" is a generic term for creative play and imaginative taking on of a role, whereas, theatre "requires" an audience and sometimes the technicalities of performance for an audience.

Related Topics:
Play - Role - Performance - Audience

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With theatre we are concerned with individuals, with drama we are concerned with the individuality of the individuals.

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