大象传媒

Using space and levels

Space

Space refers to how performers or items are positioned on stage. The process of placing performers in a specific space is called . The position between performers is important from a practical perspective to ensure that the audience can see everyone on stage clearly, but use of space can also reveal important information about character relationships - this is called .

Four people stand at varying distances from a central person, the closest being an intimate distance and then personal, social and public.

Levels

refer to the use of different heights, eg through standing or sitting, to convey meaning on stage. They can be used to create visual interest but they can also signal status and character relationships. For example, a more dominant character may stand towering over a vulnerable character.

Four performers are featured sitting at different levels - one is on the floor, one is playing an instrument while sat on a piece of the set and two others sit behind him, slightly higher up.
Image caption,
Four performers sit at different levels during a performance of Kuddam Bab al-Safara al-Leil Kan Tawil, Al-Madina Theater