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Delivering an ovation-worthy Theater performance is more than just acting. Learn how costumes, lighting, music and special effects help to bring the stage to life.

Costumes 101

Featured Article: Costumes 101

They're at every sci-fi convention and Halloween party -- those people who always have the most amazing original costumes. Learn the basics of building a costume and find out what it takes to do well in costume competitions. See more »

Costumes 101

Costumes 101

They're at every sci-fi convention and Halloween party -- those people who always have the most amazing original costumes. Learn the basics of building a costume and find out what it takes to do well in costume competitions.

See more »
How Cirque du Soleil Works

How Cirque du Soleil Works

In only 20 years, Cirque du Soleil has carved out a unique niche in the entertainment industry. It has spread to cities all over the globe and earned rave reviews every step of the way. Go behind the scenes of Cirque du Soleil and learn the secrets of its success.

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How Improv Everywhere Works

How Improv Everywhere Works

Improv Everywhere is many things: A stage for the stageless; a script for struggling actors who have yet to take Broadway by storm; an attempt to get New Yorkers to remove their earbuds -- which is not as easy as it might seem.

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How Science Fiction Musicals Work

How Science Fiction Musicals Work

The staff here at HowStuffWorks started thinking about what might happen when musicals mesh with science fiction and fantasy. Find out what we discovered about the real and the more theoretical sci-fi musicals.

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How the One Man Star Wars Trilogy Works

How the One Man Star Wars Trilogy Works

Surely this is some sort of stereotypical uber-nerd who decided to take his obsession on the road. Not quite -- the creator of "One Man Star Wars" is well-versed in both acting and directing. But can a Star Wars fan go too far?

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How do fog machines work?

You've probably seen them at Halloween parties, dance clubs and stage productions. How does a machine generate thick amounts of fog, and is it safe to breathe?

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