dramaturge

American  

[drah-muh-turj, dram-uh-] / ˈdrɑ məˌtɜrdʒ, ˈdræm ə- /

Or dramaturg

noun

1. a specialist in dramaturgy, the craft and techniques of dramatic composition, especially one who acts as a consultant to a theater company and advises them on possible repertoire.

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dramaturge British  

/ ˈdræməˌtɜːdʒ /

noun

1. Also called: dramaturgist.  a dramatist, esp one associated with a particular company or theatre

2. Also called: dramaturg.  a literary adviser on the staff of a theatre, film corporation, etc, whose responsibilities may include selection and editing of texts, liaison with authors, preparation of printed programmes, and public relations work

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Etymology

Origin of dramaturge

First recorded in 1855–60; perhaps back formation from dramaturgy, but compare French dramaturge, German Dramaturg

Explanation

In the theater, a dramaturge is someone who helps the director interpret the text of the play. A dramaturge's job can include consulting with the playwright or researching details of the story. Someone who works as a dramaturge (which is sometimes spelled dramaturg) is in the field of dramaturgy. These terms derive from the Greek drama, or "play," and -ourgia, "a working." A dramaturge works with the text of a play or opera in a variety of ways, including selecting plays; editing stage directions or lines spoken by actors; and researching the history behind a work to help the costume designers and set decorators.

Example Sentences

All that matters is that he shall act his best, accept the order of the Cosmos and obey the Purpose of the great Dramaturge.

From Five Stages of Greek Religion by Murray, Gilbert

It may be that the great Dramaturge keeps his plot to himself precisely in order that the interest may be maintained up to the fall of the curtain.

From God and Mr. Wells A Critical Examination of 'God the Invisible King' by Archer, William