This book sets out to untangle the jargon of `theatrespeak' which is used on a daily basis in entertainment venues, but may sound mysterious to those learning theatrical professions, or who are involved in a joint project with professionals who take their language for granted. This glossary explains the common words and phrases that are used in normal conversation between actors, directors, designers, technicians and managers.

The author of this theatre jargon-buster needs no introduction, having been practising and teaching stage lighting for many years. As Reid points out in the prologue, "Theatre, like every profession, has adapted the English Language to suit its own special needs. So, anyone wishing to work in theatre, do business with it or just understand its mysteries, needs some knowledge of theatrespeak." And so he goes on to demystify many of the bizarre and esoteric terms found in common theatre parlance.

There is not a great deal one can say about a book that is effectively a dictionary, other than the descriptions are well-written, informative and give a small insight into the experience the author has - it's worth noting the definitions are all from the author's understanding, based on many years in the profession. In the book, there may be some terms that even a seasoned theatrical person may not have come across before, but for the most part if you know your Voms from your Vamps, then this is probably not the book for you. However, if you are completely new to it all, then it may prove an invaluable guide.