What is a 'cold reading' in the context of acting?

A 'cold reading' in the context of acting refers to the practice of performing a script or scenes without having had the opportunity to prepare or rehearse in advance. During a cold reading, actors are typically handed a script on the spot and are expected to interpret the material and convey their characters effectively, often in an audition scenario. This ability to read and perform without prior review showcases an actor’s skills in adaptability, spontaneity, and comprehension under pressure, which are vital attributes in the performing arts.

The other options do not accurately define a cold reading: rehearsals imply prior preparation, a performance without props does not relate specifically to the reading aspect, and reading scripts in front of a live audience generally indicates a performance setting rather than the on-the-spot interpretation required in a cold reading.