Staging
Dior and Sarah present the main types of stages used in theatre and explain how they influence the actors' performances and connection with the audience.
There are many different types of staging, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities when creating a performance:
- End-on staging on only one side of the stage, but in an older style theatre with a decorative arch framing the whole stage (called proscenium arch).
- When the audience sit on one side of the stage only, facing it in the same direction.
- 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.
- 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.
- When the audience surround the stage on three sides, and the other side connects to the backstage area.
- When the audience can move around and follow the action during a performance.
When staging a play, directors, performers and designers have to make creative and practical decisions suitable for the staging configuration to provide the audience with the best possible experience.