Within the context of drama, plays specifically refer to theatrical performances that tell stories through the actions, speech, and emotions of the characters. Plays are performed on stage by actors and usually involve elements such as sets, costumes, lighting, and sound effects to enhance the dramatic experience for the audience.
The relationship between drama and plays can be summarised as follows:
Drama is the broader genre: Drama encompasses a wide range of forms, including plays, but also other formats like radio dramas, television dramas, and film dramas.
Plays are a specific type of drama: Plays are a specific form of dramatic art that is performed on stage, with actors embodying characters and presenting a story through dialogue and action.
Plays are a significant part of drama: While plays are not the only form of drama, they hold an essential place in the history and development of the art form. They have been a means of storytelling, cultural expression, and entertainment for centuries.
In essence, drama provides the framework for storytelling and the portrayal of human emotions and experiences, while plays are a specific form of drama that brings those stories to life on stage through the collaboration of actors, directors, and other theatre professionals.