Types of Staging

Question 1

Describe a Proscenium Arch.

Answer 1

The ‘typical’ stage - looks like a window into another world/ deep stage with wings. Typically the most used in the UK.

Question 2

Describe a Thrust Stage. Give an example.

Answer 2

A stage with the audience seated on three sides, the fourth acting as the background. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre was five-sided, but a good example.

Question 3

Describe End Staging.

Answer 3

Staging where the stage goes from wall to wall. The audience are seated in front; there are next to no wings, but there may be exits/entrances on the sides. The background serves as a background. (Think of Phoenix without any built set)

Question 4

Describe Arena Theatre. Give an example.

Answer 4

Where the stage is central - sometimes raised - with the audience surrounding, much like amphitheaters.

Question 5

Describe Flexible Theatre.

Answer 5

Much like a ‘black box’ where the director can situate the audience to their desires. Allows for acting/staging/dressing ease. Think of college, just with more space!

Question 6

Describe Profile Theatre.

Answer 6

Often in ‘found spaces’. The audience are seated close.

Question 7

What is ‘Split Staging?’

Answer 7

Where the performance space is split, to provide two moments of action - in PP/splitting ‘AVFTB’ into two levels in my own idea.