What does repertory mean?
A repertory is the range of works, skills, or materials available to a performer, artist, or organization. The term is especially familiar from theatre, where it can mean a company's stock of plays or the established body of roles performed by an actor. More broadly, it describes the range of pieces a musician or vocalist is prepared to perform, or the collection of techniques and subjects someone can use effectively. A performer may develop a wide repertoire, while a theatre presents a season drawn from its repertory. The word suggests breadth, familiarity, and dependable command rather than a single speciality. It is often positive when it describes artistic versatility, although it can carry a slightly formal tone and should not be used to suggest that an artist is equally accomplished in every area of their repertoire.
A collection or range of works, abilities, skills, or materials available to a person or organization.
"The programme showcased a broad repertoire of chamber music."
In the arts, the term often implies works that have been studied and can be performed confidently.
Of or relating to a repertory, especially a body of plays performed regularly by a theatrical company.
"They joined a repertory theatre for their first professional season."
This use is common in phrases such as “repertory company” and “repertory theatre.”
The plural is used when referring to the separate collections available to different performers, artists, or organizations.
"The festival brought together the repertoires of leading musicians from around the world."
A theatrical repertory is literally the company's working library: the plays it knows well enough to keep alive on stage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does repertory come from?
The word comes from Latin repertorium, meaning an inventory or catalogue, ultimately from reperire, a form of reperīre meaning “to find out” or “discover.” English borrowed the term in the early 17th century for a catalogue of plays or other works available to an actor or company. French répertoire and English repertoire are related developments from the same Latin source.
Related word forms
How repertory is actually used
The word is especially common in the arts, particularly theatre, music, and dance. In British English, repertory is particularly associated with repertory companies and seasons based on a recurring body of plays; the term is also well established in North American English.
Easily confused with repertory
Repertory most often denotes a stock or range of works or abilities, especially in theatre, while repertoire is a closely related term often used for the complete body of works an actor or musician can perform.