Scenario facts for kids

A scenario is like a simple plan or outline for a story, a play, or even a future event. Think of it as a basic roadmap that shows the main actions and events that will happen.

In theatre and movies, a scenario is a short description of what happens. Long ago, in a type of Italian comedy called Commedia dell'arte, actors used scenarios. These were outlines of when characters would enter or leave, and what actions would take place. They were sometimes literally pinned to the back of the stage scenery to help actors remember the story!

Scenarios in Old Plays

The scenarios from the Renaissance (a period of history from about the 1300s to 1600s) were very basic. They usually only listed character names, a few actions, and mentions of "lazzi" (which were funny, pre-planned jokes or actions). People believe these scenarios helped actors make up their performances on the spot. They also served as simple reminders of the plot for actors who could read.

Planning Big Shows

When people create an opera (a play mostly sung) or a ballet (a story told through dance), they often start with a scenario. This helps them figure out how to turn an original story into a performance. This early sketch is very useful for "pitching" the idea – meaning, presenting it – to people like a producer (who helps fund and organize the show), a director (who guides the actors), or a composer (who writes the music).

Scenarios for the Future

Scenarios aren't just for entertainment! They are also used in planning for the future. For example, big organizations use scenarios to think about different ways events might happen. It's like creating different "what if" stories to help them prepare for various possibilities. This helps them understand how future events could unfold and plan their actions.