A dramatic beginning is often used to set the tone for a story or performance. The term can be broken down into three crossword solutions: MELO (4 letters), ACTI (4 letters), and ACTONE (6 letters). MELO stands for melodrama, which is a type of drama that is characterized by exaggerated emotions and sensationalism. ACTI stands for action, which is a type of dramatic event that involves physical activity. Finally, ACTONE stands for act one, which is the first act of a play or performance. Together, these three terms represent a dramatic beginning.