THeatre Stages

Adrian Tong S2G 31

PROSCENIUM
ARCH os

co
pr

ns
The proscenium arch is not the
stage itself, but a prominent fancy :)
only one
architectural feature of the viewing angle
more space for
stage: A mainly decorative
cast
feature framing the opening o the audience is
Used to be (and still is) easier to shift “removed” from
stage and the auditorium. Common
very popular, but needed sets (apron)
features include: Aprons, supplements due to action bc of
orchestral pit. incomplete communication apron for distance
w/ audience
foreground/back
2D set feels
ground
“fake” - not
curtains believable
Came from the greek word “proskēnion” -
just colonnades supporting a raised
platform

One sided stage: viewed from one side

only

why? ARENA STAGE

the arena format makes it hard to
establish sight lines, limits set
possibilities as well as cast size
and blocks actors from facing the
entire audience. BUT:
Audience intimacy
this format allows for more intimate
productions as distance is negated
and the view allows for
believability.
Control
when the actors lose sight lines, the
audience gains control over
interpretation.
All-sided stage: viewed from all sides
Also called an in-the-round stage, it
is a polygonal stage enclosed by
audience on all sides. Actors come
onstage through aisles in the seating.
The stage is usually level or below
the seating.
Short history & info:
Used frequently in ancient
greece/rome
Reappearance in 1910s American
colleges
HK arena stage: Hong Kong Coliseum

Arena stage middle ground

THRUST STAGE 100% for The thrust stage acts as a
engagement/intimacy with compromise between
Thrust stages project into the
audience proscenium and arena
auditorium, like a peninsula into the
Neglects convenience
audience seating. The stage is hence
surrounded by audience on 3 sides
similar to a arena stage but possesses
some of the benefits of a proscenium
arch stage. Thrust stage Proscenium arch
Quick set shifting BUT 2D &
Very adaptable & easier
messy lighting
to set up
Closer to audience BUT
Neglects intimacy with
still 1 main vantage point
audience
Flexible in cast size