Types of Stage
Types of Stage
You will need to know these six different stage types for Section A. Read the descriptions of the advantages and disadvantages of each configuration.
Proscenium Arch
Proscenium Arch
ADVANTAGES
Stage pictures are easy to create as the audience look roughly at the same angle.
Backdrops and large scenery can be used without blocking sightlines. There is also lots of storage room.
The frame around the stage adds to the effect of a fourth wall; creating a self contained world.
DISADVANTAGES
Some audience members may feel distant from the stage.
The auditorium could feel formal and rigid.
Audience interaction may be more difficult.
End-On
End-On
ADVANTAGES
The audience all have a similar view.
Stage pictures are easy to create.
Large backdrops or projections may be used.
DISADVANTAGES
Audience members in the back rows may feel distant from the stage.
It doesn’t have the proscenium frame, which can enhance some types of staging.
It may not have wings or a fly area.
Thrust
Thrust
ADVANTAGES
As there is no audience on one side of the stage, backdrops, flats and large scenery can be used.
The audience might feel closer to the stage.
Fourth wall can be achieved while having the audience close to the action.
DISADVANTAGES
Sightlines for those on the extreme sides may be limited.
The audience on the right and left side of the auditorium have each other in their view.
Box sets (where three sides of a room are constructed) can not be used.
In-the-Round
In-the-Round
ADVANTAGES:
The audience is close to the stage as there is an intended first row.
The actors enter and exit through the audience which can make them feel more engaged.
There is no easily achieved fourth wall separating the audience from the actors.
DISADVANTAGES
Designers can not use backdrops or flats as they would obscure the view of the audience.
Stage furniture has to be chosen carefully so that audience sightlines aren’t blocked.
Actors have to continually move around so that the audience can see them and critical interactions.
Traverse
Traverse
ADVANTAGES
They can see the reactions of the other side of the audience.
Extreme ends of the stage can be used to create extra acting areas.
The audience feel very close to the stage as there are two long front rows.
DISADVANTAGES
Big pieces of scenery, backdrops or set can block sightlines.
The acting area is long and thin, which can make some blocking challenging.
Actors must be aware of making themselves visible to both sides of the audience.
Promenade
Promenade
ADVANTAGES
Interactive style of theatre where the audience feels involved.
Enables audience to be more engaged as they move from one piece of action to the next.
No set changes or need for movement of big bulky items.
DISADVANTAGES
The audience may find moving around the space difficult or might get tired.
Actors and or crew need to be skilled at moving the audience around and controlling their focus.
There can be health and safety risks.
Have a go at this Stage Configuration Quizlet:
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