The relevance of the study is conditioned upon the fact that contemporary art undergoes various transformations. Notably, modern theater is aimed at creating a variety of entertainment forms. It depends on the bright scenery, outrageous acting and the availability of experimental performances. Speech techniques as an important tool of verbal action in the art of the actor also acquired a specific, even paradoxical character. The theatrical work becomes quite subjective and individualised, embodies the inner well-being of the artist in the depiction of his emotions, worldview and more. In this regard, the article aims to determine the nature and features of speech techniques in the practice of performing arts. The leading methods of research on this problem are methods of analysis, synthesis, deduction, generalisation and comparison of approaches, which will help determine the main essence of the problem of speech and speech techniques as an important tool of verbal action in the art of the actor. The article presents various approaches to the study and interpretation of the stage word as a socio-cultural phenomenon; the analysis of works of artists, researchers who are engaged in research of this process is carried out; emphasis is placed on psychological difficulties and peculiarities of the organisation of verbal action on the stage; the definition of the essence of the subtext as a category of stage speech is offered; the methods of its embodiment in theatrical practice are substantiated; the specific features of the functioning of intonation in stage works are traced; diagnosed promising methods of developing the technique of stage speech in theatrical activities; the requirements of acting in the context of the development of theater of the 21st century are determined; the process of creating exemplary stage speech is demonstrated; recommendations and main tasks for improving speech techniques as an important tool of verbal action in the art of the actor and component of theatrical art are revealed. The materials of the article are of practical and theoretical value for art critics, actors, directors, culturologists and theater figures, who will be able to improve the forms of work on the word, to develop skills of language and speech culture. In addition, the information may be relevant for students of stage and art, scientists, teachers who will be able to implement certain principles in future theater activities.