Directing and Stage Management: A Comprehensive Guide for 7th Grade Drama Students

Question 1

What is the director's main job when interpreting and staging a play?

Accepted Answer

Understand the script and make artistic choices that support the playwright's vision and the production's goals.

Answer

Follow the script exactly, without any personal interpretation.

Answer

Add their own ideas and changes to the script, even if it goes against the playwright's intent.

Question 2

It's opening night for your production of 'Romeo and Juliet', but the actor playing Romeo gets sick! What's the BEST solution to keep the show going?

Accepted Answer

Find a new actor who can learn the role quickly.

Answer

Cancel the show until Romeo is better.

Answer

Change the play to remove Romeo's part.

Question 3

In a theatrical production, what is the main duty of a stage manager?

Accepted Answer

To manage the technical aspects of the show, such as lighting, sound, and set changes.

Answer

To interpret the director's vision and guide the actors on stage.

Answer

To offer emotional support and guidance to the actors during rehearsals.

Answer

To promote and market the production to attract an audience.

Question 4

How does effective communication between directors and producers contribute to a successful theatrical production?

Accepted Answer

It ensures a shared understanding of the production's goals and allows for the exchange of ideas.

Answer

It gives the director complete creative control, while the producer manages only financial matters.

Answer

It is not necessary as long as both the director and producer understand their roles.

Question 5

A director wants to include a dangerous stunt in a scene, but the stage manager is concerned about the safety of the actors. What is the best course of action for the stage manager?

Accepted Answer

Discuss the risks with the director and work together to find a safer way to stage the scene.

Answer

Follow the director's wishes, even if it means putting the actor at risk.

Answer

Refuse to stage the scene, even if it means the director will be angry.

Answer

Quit the production in protest.

Question 6

In the pre-production phase, what is the director's main duty?

Accepted Answer

Creating a vision for the production and interpreting the script

Answer

Choosing actors and assigning roles

Answer

Managing the budget and securing funding

Answer

Scheduling rehearsals and coordinating technical aspects

Question 7

How do rehearsal techniques contribute to actors' performances and the director's artistic vision?

Accepted Answer

They provide a structured environment for actors to explore their characters, experiment with different approaches, and receive feedback to enhance their performances.

Answer

They help actors memorize their lines and stage directions.

Answer

They solely ensure that actors understand the director's interpretation of the play.

Answer

They have minimal impact on the actors' performances or the director's vision.

Question 8

To ensure the smooth running and precise timing of a theatrical performance, stage managers primarily rely on which technique?

Accepted Answer

Creating a detailed cue sheet that outlines all stage cues and timings

Answer

Solely relying on actors' rehearsals to ensure precise timing during the live performance

Answer

Allowing actors complete freedom to improvise their lines and timing within their scenes

Answer

Trusting the actors' memorization of their lines and entrances to manage timing

Question 9

Which documents and systems are essential for stage managers to coordinate a production smoothly?

Accepted Answer

Production schedules, rehearsal reports, and call sheets

Answer

Scripts, costume designs, and lighting cues

Answer

Company charter, bylaws, and meeting minutes

Answer

Audience surveys, ticket sales records, and marketing materials

Question 10

Explain why conflict resolution skills are essential for stage managers and describe strategies they can use to resolve conflicts during production.

Accepted Answer

Stage managers can use active listening, empathy, and negotiation to resolve conflicts.

Answer

Conflict resolution skills are not crucial for stage managers because they mainly handle technical aspects.

Answer

Stage managers should ignore conflicts and hope they resolve themselves.

Answer

Stage managers should always support the director, even if they disagree, to maintain authority.

Question 11

What can result from poor communication and teamwork between the director and stage manager?

Accepted Answer

Increased confusion and miscommunication

Answer

Enhanced production quality

Answer

Reduced stress and conflicts

Question 12

Which of the following is a key responsibility of stage managers in ensuring the safety of performers and crew during rehearsals and performances?

Accepted Answer

Conducting regular safety inspections and reviewing safety protocols

Answer

Delegating safety responsibilities to specific crew members

Answer

Ignoring safety concerns raised by performers or crew

Answer

Performing as the understudy for multiple roles in the production

Question 13

When an actor expresses discomfort with the intensity of a role involving a mental breakdown, how should a director ethically proceed?

Accepted Answer

Work with the actor to find a compromise that respects both their well-being and the artistic vision.

Answer

Demand the actor perform the scene regardless of their discomfort.

Answer

Replace the actor with someone more suited to the role.

Answer

Abandon the production entirely.

Question 14

What are the main tasks of a director during the pre-production phase?

Accepted Answer

Analyzing the script, researching, and creating a vision for the production

Answer

Rehearsing with actors

Answer

Designing costumes, sets, and lighting

Answer

Booking the venue and hiring crew members

Question 15

In modern theatre, how has the relationship between audiences and theatrical productions changed?

Accepted Answer

Audiences are actively involved in shaping the theatrical experience through interactive elements, blurring the lines between performers and spectators.

Answer

Audiences are becoming less involved and are seen as passive observers.

Answer

Audience engagement techniques only aim to make shows more entertaining, not to enhance the artistic experience.

Answer

Theatrical productions prioritize entertainment over audience engagement, focusing solely on capturing the audience's attention.

Question 16

How have historical and cultural factors influenced the development of directing and stage management practices?

Accepted Answer

Historical and cultural contexts have significantly shaped directing and stage management techniques.

Answer

Directing and stage management practices have remained unchanged throughout history and across cultures.

Answer

Historical events alone have influenced directing and stage management techniques, with no impact from cultural contexts.

Question 17

In a theatrical production, how do the director and stage manager collaborate to interpret and execute the playwright's vision?

Accepted Answer

The director interprets the vision, and the stage manager translates it into practical stage directions.

Answer

The director focuses on the artistic aspects, while the stage manager handles the technical elements.

Answer

They work independently, communicating only when necessary.

Answer

They have no direct interaction during the production process.

Question 18

How does the cultural and historical context of a play's time period impact a director's interpretation?

Accepted Answer

It influences all aspects of the director's interpretation, including acting style, set design, and text interpretation.

Answer

It only affects the director's choices for costumes and set design.

Question 19

How do directors and designers work together to create a unified visual and conceptual experience that supports the production's artistic vision?

Accepted Answer

Directors and designers collaborate to establish a shared artistic vision for the production, considering the script, concept, and other elements.

Answer

Directors and designers work separately, with minimal interaction.

Answer

The director solely determines the production's concept, while the designer simply carries it out.

Answer

The designer has no creative input in the production's concept and simply executes the director's vision.

Question 20

How can directors and stage managers harness audience feedback to enhance their theatrical productions?

Accepted Answer

Utilize audience feedback to pinpoint areas for improvement and make adjustments accordingly.

Answer

Discard audience feedback as unreliable and potentially biased.

Answer

Gather audience feedback, but only use it to confirm their own preconceived ideas.

Answer

Collect audience feedback solely to gauge the success or failure of a production.

Question 21

In a theatre production, how do directors and stage managers collaborate with the team to ensure a successful show?

Accepted Answer

Directors share their vision with actors, while stage managers coordinate with designers.

Answer

Directors and stage managers work separately from other team members.

Answer

Stage managers take care of everything in the production, including artistic choices.

Answer

Actors, designers, and technicians don't need to communicate with directors or stage managers.

Question 22

In a community theatre production, what is the director primarily responsible for?

Accepted Answer

Interpreting the script and creating the artistic vision

Answer

Scheduling and managing rehearsals

Answer

Managing the budget and fundraising

Answer

Ensuring safety and the well-being of the cast and crew

Question 23

How does the director's interpretation of the playwright's script guide the stage manager's execution of the production?

Accepted Answer

The director provides a detailed plan for the production, including movement, lighting, and sound, based on their interpretation of the script.

Answer

The stage manager has the freedom to interpret the script and execute the production based on their own understanding.

Answer

The director's interpretation has no impact on the stage manager's execution of the production.

Answer

The stage manager interprets the script independently and presents their interpretation to the director for approval.

Question 24

How do directors and stage managers work together to foster a positive and inclusive work environment in a theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Communicate openly and respect each other's skills.

Answer

Divide tasks based on expertise, avoiding overlaps.

Answer

Give directors full creative control, with stage managers handling technical aspects.

Answer

Hold regular meetings to address issues, but discourage open discussions.

Question 25

What is the primary responsibility of a stage manager during a performance?

Accepted Answer

Managing the stage and coordinating cues

Answer

Leading rehearsals

Answer

Directing the actors

Answer

Writing the script

Question 26

What is the purpose of a stage plot in theater?

Accepted Answer

To show the arrangement of actors, props, and set pieces on stage

Answer

To outline the dialogue and action of the play

Answer

To provide a lighting plan for the production

Answer

To schedule rehearsals and performances

Question 27

What does a blocking scheme represent?

Accepted Answer

The actors' movements and positions on stage

Answer

The lighting and sound cues for the production

Answer

The storyboard for the play

Answer

The set design and construction plans

Question 28

What is the main difference between the roles of a director and stage manager?

Accepted Answer

The director focuses on the creative vision, while the stage manager ensures its practical execution.

Answer

The stage manager focuses on the creative vision, while the director ensures its practical execution.

Answer

They have identical responsibilities and work interchangeably.

Answer

The director manages the cast, while the stage manager oversees the technical aspects.

Question 29

Which of the following is NOT a key skill for effective stage management?

Accepted Answer

Technical expertise

Answer

Communication

Answer

Organization

Answer

Time management

Question 30

What is the main purpose of a cue sheet in theater productions?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that all technical elements, such as lighting and sound, are synchronized with the performance.

Answer

To help the actors remember their lines and cues.

Answer

To provide a detailed outline of the entire play's action.

Answer

To allow the audience to follow the plot easily.

Question 31

What is the primary function of a prompter in a theatrical production?

Accepted Answer

To assist actors with their lines and cues

Answer

To control the lighting

Answer

To operate the sound system

Answer

To manage the stage crew

Question 32

Which of the following is not a primary responsibility of a stage manager?

Accepted Answer

Giving acting notes to the actors

Answer

Calling cues

Answer

Managing the budget

Answer

Coordinating with the technical crew

Question 33

What is the main purpose of a blocking rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

To establish the physical movements and positions of the actors on stage

Answer

To practice the dialogue

Answer

To design the set and costumes

Answer

To finalize the script

Question 34

What is the term for the written document that outlines the blocking, cues, and other staging elements of a production?

Accepted Answer

Prompt book

Answer

Stage directions

Answer

Director's notes

Answer

Light plot

Question 35

Which of the following is a key skill for an effective director?

Accepted Answer

Strong communication skills

Answer

Technical proficiency

Answer

Physicality

Answer

Musicality

Question 36

What is the primary goal of a technical rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

To integrate the technical elements of the production, such as lighting, sound, and set changes

Answer

To rehearse the actors' movements and cues

Answer

To finalize the costumes and props

Answer

To troubleshoot any technical issues

Question 37

Which of the following is a common stage direction used to indicate the actor's movement across the stage?

Accepted Answer

Cross

Answer

Raise

Answer

Lower

Answer

Sit

Question 38

What is the term for the area where actors wait before entering the stage?

Accepted Answer

Wings

Answer

Green room

Answer

Dressing room

Answer

Front of house

Question 39

Which of the following is **NOT** a task of a stage manager?

Accepted Answer

Designing costumes

Answer

Coordinating the production's technical aspects

Answer

Managing the cast and crew

Answer

Maintaining the performance schedule

Question 40

What is the first step in the directing process?

Accepted Answer

Analyzing the script

Answer

Auditioning actors

Answer

Designing the set

Answer

Blocking the actors

Question 41

What is the role of the dramaturg in a theatrical production?

Accepted Answer

To provide historical and cultural context for the play

Answer

To help the director develop the staging

Answer

To manage the production's budget

Answer

To write the play

Question 42

What is the fundamental difference between stage directions and blocking?

Accepted Answer

Stage directions are in the script, while blocking is done in rehearsals.

Answer

Blocking is more precise than stage directions.

Answer

Stage directions are more precise than blocking.

Answer

There is no difference between stage directions and blocking.

Question 43

How have historical and cultural factors influenced the practices of directing and stage management in theatre production?

Accepted Answer

They have evolved due to social, technological, cultural, and artistic influences.

Answer

They have remained unchanged since ancient Greek theatre.

Answer

They are primarily determined by the playwright's script and have not changed much over time.

Question 44

How can theatre productions be made more diverse, inclusive, and culturally sensitive?

Accepted Answer

Hold open casting calls that welcome actors of all backgrounds

Accepted Answer

Conduct cultural research and consult with cultural experts

Answer

Limit casting to actors who share the same cultural background as the characters

Answer

Use only scripts written by playwrights from marginalized communities

Question 45

In a theatre production, how do stage managers ensure effective communication and collaboration among the production team?

Accepted Answer

They relay information between the director, cast, and crew.

Answer

They manage the production's budget.

Answer

They assess the performance and provide feedback to the director.

Question 46

What is the director's main responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Providing artistic guidance to the cast and crew

Answer

Managing the technical aspects of the production

Answer

Overseeing the production's finances

Answer

Designing the costumes and sets

Question 47

What is the purpose of a blocking rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

To finalize where and how actors move on stage

Answer

To choose the actors who will play each role

Answer

To distribute the rehearsal schedule

Answer

To design the promotional materials

Question 48

Which is NOT a responsibility of the stage manager?

Accepted Answer

Directing the actors in their performances

Answer

Calling cues for the cast and crew

Answer

Managing the rehearsal schedule

Answer

Supervising set construction and lighting

Question 49

What is the main reason for using a production book?

Accepted Answer

To document the production process for future reference

Answer

To promote the production to audiences

Answer

To contain only the director's notes

Answer

To raise funds for the production

Question 50

What are the main elements of a stage floor plan?

Accepted Answer

Scale, scene numbers, and entrances/exits

Answer

Furniture, props, and lighting placement

Answer

Actor blocking, sound design, and costume details

Answer

Audience seating, ticket prices, and concessions

Question 51

What is the purpose of a technical rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

To combine all technical elements of the production

Answer

To finalize actor performances

Answer

To promote the production

Answer

To train new cast and crew members

Question 52

What is the main benefit of involving a dramaturg in a theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Providing historical and cultural context for the play

Answer

Designing the costumes and makeup

Answer

Directing the actors in their performances

Answer

Recruiting and managing cast and crew

Question 53

Which of the following is NOT a core responsibility of a director?

Accepted Answer

Managing the financial aspects of the production

Answer

Interpreting the playwright's vision and communicating it to the cast and crew

Answer

Auditioning and casting actors

Answer

Guiding actors in their performances

Question 54

What is the primary function of a stage manager in a theatrical production?

Accepted Answer

To assist the director in rehearsals and ensure the smooth running of the performance

Answer

To coordinate all technical aspects of the performance, such as lighting, sound, and set design

Answer

To manage the actors backstage and ensure their well-being

Answer

To handle the marketing and promotion of the production

Question 55

What is the term used to describe the planned movement of actors on stage?

Accepted Answer

Blocking

Answer

Lighting

Answer

Costuming

Answer

Sound design

Question 56

What is the main purpose of a rehearsal schedule?

Accepted Answer

To plan and organize rehearsals efficiently, ensuring that all necessary scenes and elements are covered

Answer

To track actor attendance and monitor progress

Answer

To communicate rehearsal information to the cast and crew

Answer

To set deadlines and assign responsibilities

Question 57

What is the role of a prompt book in a theatrical production?

Accepted Answer

To provide actors with their lines and cues during performances

Answer

To assist the stage manager in coordinating the performance and ensuring its smooth execution

Answer

To record blocking and lighting cues for future reference

Answer

To document the production process for archival purposes

Question 58

Which of the following is the director's main responsibility in a theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Leading rehearsals and guiding actors' performances

Answer

Managing the budget and securing funding

Answer

Designing the set and costumes

Answer

Promoting the production and selling tickets

Question 59

What is the primary purpose of a stage manager during a performance?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring a seamless performance, including cues and stage directions

Answer

Supervising actors and managing their performances

Answer

Controlling lighting and sound effects

Answer

Coordinating with the audience and managing their experience

Question 60

Which of these is NOT a crucial element of the director's production plan?

Accepted Answer

Marketing and audience outreach

Answer

Concept and vision for the play

Answer

Blocking and stage directions

Answer

Actor casting and character development

Question 61

What is the key purpose of blocking in theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Establishing the positions and movements of actors on stage

Answer

Creating the set design and selecting appropriate props

Answer

Directing lighting and sound cues

Answer

Developing costumes and makeup

Question 62

How does a director utilize a ground plan for production planning?

Accepted Answer

Determining the placement of actors and set pieces on stage

Answer

Designing lighting and sound cues

Answer

Scheduling rehearsals and performances

Answer

Promoting the production and generating buzz

Question 63

What is the purpose of a stage manager's prompt book?

Accepted Answer

Recording cues, stage directions, and technical information for a production

Answer

Providing notes and feedback to the director and cast

Answer

Serving as a script for the actors

Answer

Promoting the production and attracting audiences

Question 64

Which of the following is NOT a primary responsibility of a director in theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Designing lighting and sound cues

Answer

Analyzing the script and developing a concept

Answer

Leading rehearsals and guiding actors' performances

Answer

Collaborating with the stage manager to ensure a smooth production