A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Z

Half (The): Half an hour before the first actors are due on stage (i.e. 35 minutes before the show begins). All actors must be in their dressing rooms by the Half. Traditionally the audience is allowed into the auditorium at that point. Traditionally too, the House Manager blows a whistle in the auditorium to announce the Half.
Hand Model: A performer whose hands are used in movies, television or commercial productions.
Hand Props: Properties that are handled by actors during the performance.
Hand-off: The action of a crew member handling a prop for an actor at a designated time and place during a performance.
Hanging: The process of putting a lighting instrument in its designated spot according to the light plot.
Head Shot: A still photograph, generally 8" x 10", showing head and shoulders.
Hiatus: Time during which a television series is out, or on break, from actual production.
High-Angle Shot: A shot taken from above a subject, creating a sense of "looking down" upon whatever is photographed.
High-Key: light brilliantly illuminates a set.
Hold (on Hold): A contractual obligation for a Performer to be available for work.
Holding Fee: Set payment by an advertiser to retain the right to use a performer's services, image or likeness on a product exclusion basis.
Honey Wagon: A truck or towed vehicle containing one or more dressing rooms and/or production offices and mobile restrooms.
Hot Set: Hands Off! This is a set that has been used or has been prepared for use and is NOT to be Disturbed.
Hot Spot: The area of the greatest illumination projected by a lighting instrument.
House Lights: Lights used to illuminate the area where the audience sits.
House Manager: In charge of everything which happens front of house (FoH ): box office, ushers/usherettes, the bars, cash, etc..
House Tabs: The curtains across the front of the stage.
House: The part of the theatre where the audience sits. See also FoH.