Cues and timing — Drama, 7–10 years
A cue tells a performer when to begin, change or stop, so a scene can work as one shared pattern.
Knowing when to go
A cue is a signal that tells a performer when to do something. It can be another actor’s final word, a sound, a light change, a movement or a planned pause. Timing means noticing that signal and responding at the right moment, not simply rushing to be first.
Why do cues matter?
A scene has many parts that must fit together: words, entrances, music, lights and objects. Cues solve the problem of everyone acting at once or missing the moment they are needed. They grew from the need to coordinate a whole performance, even when performers cannot constantly look at one another.
The sound of rain
The plan says: after Sam says, “The sky is changing,” a rain sound begins, Jo opens the umbrella and Kim runs inside. In rehearsal, Sam says the line and pauses for one breath. The sound operator starts the rain, Jo waits for its first drops, and Kim moves after the umbrella opens. Each cue makes the next action clear.
The trap: waiting for a perfect cue
A performer may stare at the stage manager or wait for an exact word, because a clear signal feels safer. But a cue can be quiet or slightly different in a real performance. Learn the agreed cue, listen for it, and stay ready to adjust without showing panic if it arrives early or late.
Timing in shared work
Cues are useful in concerts, dance, sports plays and presentations, not only in theatre. A conductor’s gesture, a teammate’s call or a slide-changing signal helps a group move together. Good timing also means watching and listening, so your action supports everyone else’s.
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