| Maroon |
An electrically fired thunderflash, set off in a steel tank
fitted with a wire mesh top, to simulate an explosion. These are so loud that
it is as well to inform the police in advance if one is to be set off (and at
what time), so that they can be ready to deal with hundeds of reports of bombs
going off! |
| Mask |
To hide: an actors masks another when he stands in front of him and
prevents the audience from seeing him properly. Also a noun: fabric hiding a
row of lanterns hung above the stage. |
| Mixer |
Or Mixing Desk. A device for mixing together and modifying sounds
from a variety of sources: microphones, tapes, CDs, musical instruments,
etc.. |
| Mr Sands |
Theatrical code to warn theatre employees of a fire without frightening the
audience. "Mr Sands is in the foyer" means that fire has broken out
in the foyer. |
| Multiplex |
A means of sending control signals from a lighting control console to the
dimmer packs. Signals are sent down one cable rather than one per channel as is
the case with analogue desks. At the dimmer end, a de-multiplexer (DMUX) is
used to separate the signals and route them to the right dimmer. Often
shortened (in brand names) to MX. |
| Musical Director |
(MD) In complete control of the music in the production, under the overall
control of the Director. Rehearses the singers and musicians, conducts the
orchestra or band, and usually arranges the music too. |
| Notes |
At the end of each rehearsal, the director will give his notes, which are
his comments on the performance. |
| Number 1 Bar |
The lighting bar immediately behind the proscenium arch (qv) or the front
bar which hangs over the stage in a non-proscenium arch theatre. |
| OP |
Opposite prompt: the right hand side of the stage as you face the audience.
|
| Open White |
A lantern (qv) is said to be "in open white" if no filter or gel
is used to colour its light. |
