Established in 16th Century Italy, commedia dell'arte was a form of improvised theatre performed outdoors by a company of masked actors, including stock characters such as Arlecchino (Harlequin) who improvised the whole show using a list of scenes (scenario) and comedy sequences (lazzi). The style has had a lasting effect on contemporary theatre and comedy.

Cross-cutting (also called Split-Screen) is a technique borrowed from the world of film editing, where two scenes are intercut to establish continuity. In drama and theatre the term is used to describe two or more scenes which are performed on stage at the same time. This makes it possible to juxtapose scenes or snippets of scenes that happen at different times or in different places, using separate areas of the performance space. The technique is used to highlight or contrast a particular theme or aspect of the story. Using different groupings, both scenes could happen at the same time, or one could be frozen while the other comes alive. This can have a similar effect to spotlighting particular areas of the stage or using a split-screen in a film.

A technique pioneered by Brazilian radical Augusto Boal . A play or scene, usually indicating some kind of oppression, is shown twice. During the replay, any member of the audience ('spect-actor') is allowed to shout 'Stop!', step forward and take the place of one of the oppressed characters, showing how they could change the situation to enable a different outcome. Several alternatives may be explored by different spect-actors. The other actors remain in character, improvising their responses. A facilitator (Joker) is necessary to enable communication between the players and the audience.

A character is questioned by the group about his or her background, behaviour and motivation. The method may be used for developing a role in the drama lesson or rehearsals, or analysing a play post-performance. Even done without preparation, it is an excellent way of fleshing out a character. Characters may be hot-seated individually, in pairs or small groups. The technique is additionally useful for developing questioning skills with the rest of the group. It can be used as part of Teacher in Role.

Traditionally, theatre is presented 'end-on', with the performers on a stage or performing area at one end of a room. Theatre in the round is performed in the centre of a space with the audience all around. The performing area could be circular, rectangular or even triangular. This style of performance enables more intimate contact between the performers and the audience. However it also requires a different approach to design, blocking and performing, as sight-lines need to be considered carefully so that no section of the audience is neglected.