What does a cue signify in a theatrical performance?

A cue in a theatrical performance serves as a crucial signal that indicates another action is about to occur. This can encompass a wide range of signals, such as the moment an actor should deliver their line, when a piece of music should start playing, or when a lighting change is required. Cues are essential for keeping the performance synchronized and ensuring all elements of the production—acting, sound, lighting, and staging—work together seamlessly.

While options regarding audience applause or stage directions to exit the scene may also be relevant in different contexts, they do not encapsulate the broader function of a cue. Similarly, while a call for actors to take their places may occur during a production, it is not the primary definition of a cue within the dynamic flow of a performance. The significance of cues lies in their role as pivotal moments that drive the continuity and rhythm of the theatrical experience.