What type of cue is based on the action on stage rather than being given by a stage manager?

A visual cue is based on the action taking place on stage rather than being communicated through a stage manager's instructions. This type of cue allows actors and crew members to react directly to what they see happening in the performance environment. For example, when an actor makes a specific movement that signals another actor to enter or a piece of lighting changes in relation to the action, those are considered visual cues. They rely on the visual stimuli presented in the performance rather than auditory signals or prompts from the stage manager. This reliance on stage action fosters a dynamic and responsive performance, engaging both the actors and audience in real-time interactions.

In contrast, audio cues rely on sound to direct action or transitions, dialogue cues are tied to spoken lines, often signifying shifts in the scene, and stage cues generally refer to instructions or cues from the stage manager, rather than the visual elements occurring during the performance itself.