Theatre crafts Three types of stages

Today’s schedule Any syllabus sheets? Any issues with the website scavenger hunt? Intro to three types of stages Proscenium Stage Thrust Stage Arena Stage Group work Designing sets for different stages

The proscenium

Proscenium stages Has a PROSCENIUM ARCH that frames the space on the stage where the performance is given The audience sits facing the front of the stage. Left and right wings, where actors wait to appear and props are stored, are hidden by the curtains and/or arch. Stages can be small or several stories.

Proscenium stages (cont.) Proscenium stages are ideal for realistic acting and production styles. In many productions, entire sets are concealed in these areas Stagehands can completely change the stage set between scenes, creating the realistic illusion of a different place for the next scene.

THRUST STAGES

THRUST STAGES

Thrust stages Extends out to the audience on three sides. May be connected to a larger, proscenium stage The actors enter and exit at the back of the stage but at times through audience aisles. Creates greater intimacy with the audience than does the proscenium theater. Brings audience members closer to the story Set designers, however, must have all major designs in the back. A stage left desk, for example, could block the view of stage right action.

ARENA STAGES

Arena stages Can be round, triangular or square Actors enter the stage from beneath it or from audience aisles. The stage is often level with the audience or lower. Audience closer than proscenium stages What must be considered in terms of set design and actors’ movements.

Working in groups You will be assigned a certain setting for your play. Based on your setting, you must create a set design for TWO of the THREE sets Pick two: Proscenium, Thrust, Arena Based on your setting, how will your set change?