What is focus ?
Directing the audience’s attention to the most important moment or character.
proscenium arch staging
End-on staging on only one side of the
stage, but in an older style theatre with a decorative arch framing the whole stage.
end-on staging
When the audience sit on one side of the stage only, facing it in the same direction.
in the round staging
When the audience are placed all around the outside of the performers’ playing space. The stage area may be circular or square, with entrances and exits through the audience.
traverse staging
When the audience is placed on either side of the actors’ playing space or stage, facing each other. This staging form is also called corridor.
thrust staging
When the audience surround the stage on three sides, and the other side connects to the backstage area.
fourth wall
An imaginary fourth wall between the audience and the actors to help establish the illusion of reality.
naturalistic
A form of theatre designed to create the illusion of reality for an audience.
Originated in the late 19th century.
raked
Sloped at an upwards angle.
drape
Different types of curtains used in theatre.
sightline
The view of the performers or audience.
blocking
The process of placing performers in a specific space.
What is a disadvantage of proscenium arch staging ?
the audience can be quite far from the stage, making it difficult for them to see and hear the performers and be as immersed in the action.
Difference between proscenium and end on stage ?
End-on staging is very similar to proscenium arch, but without the arch frame around the stage space.
lantern
The technical term for a stage light.
Disadvantage of in the round stage
In terms of design, set pieces cannot be too high or they will obstruct sightlines , and lighting can be challenging. Lanterns need to be positioned carefully so that they don’t shine into the audience’s eyes.
backdrop
A section at the back of the stage that can be painted or projected onto.
Disadvantage of traverse stage
It means that scenery must be low so that it doesn’t cause obstruction, so backdrops cannot be used.
Advantage of thrust stage
Blocking is easier than in the round and traverse staging as there is a back wall, so performers don’t have to worry about having their back facing the audience.
What are proxemics ?
The use of distance between characters to show relationships or power.
What are levels?
Different heights on stage used to show status or tension.
What are transitions?
How the play moves smoothly between scenes.
