Lecture Notes: Types of Stages in Theater

Introduction

• Speaker: Nicola Sachiani
• Topic: Different types of stages in theater
  • Importance of knowing the type of stage for acting, directing, and building.
  • Overview of six main stage types.

Types of Stages

1. Proscenium Stage

• Description: Most common type, with a frame around the stage.
  • Often includes an apron (small stage area in front of the frame).
  • Common in high schools and Broadway.
  • Examples: Ornate prosceniums like those in "Peter and the Starcatcher."

2. Platform Stage

• Description: Raised stage without a frame, in front of the audience.
  • No top or full frame; may have walls blocking the wings.
  • Common in concerts and speaker events.

3. Thrust Stage

• Description: Stage extends into the audience, with audience on three sides.
  • Can include a proscenium at the upstage.
  • Requires consideration of audience visibility from all sides.

4. Arena Stage (Theater in the Round)

• Description: Audience surrounds the stage on all four sides.
  • Example: The Colosseum as an arena for gladiator fights.
  • Modern Example: Circle in the Square Theater on Broadway.
  • No actual backstage.

5. Black Box Stage (Flexible Stage)

• Description: Versatile stage with movable seating arrangements.
  • Allows for various stage configurations (e.g., thrust, arena).
  • Design flexibility makes it exciting for designers.

6. Open-Air Theater

• Description: Any stage where some part lacks a roof.
  • Example: Bandshells with covered stages and open audience areas.
  • Historical Example: The Globe Theater with certain audience sections covered.
  • The Colosseum fits this as it is an open-air arena.

7. Site-Specific Theater

• Description: Performed at specific non-stage locations.
  • Example: A play in a hallway or an old hotel.
  • Provides unique atmospheric elements compared to traditional stages.

Importance of Different Stage Types

• Acting Considerations:

  • Proscenium: Actors must "cheat out" to the audience.
  • Thrust/Arena: Constant movement to ensure visibility.

• Technical and Scenic Elements:

  • Proscenium: Only front-facing elements need finishing.
  • Thrust/Arena: All sides of set pieces need finishing due to audience angles.
  • Black Box/Site-Specific: Detailed finishes due to close audience proximity.
  • Open-Air: Consideration for weather and durability in element exposure.

Conclusion

• Emphasized the importance of understanding stage types for all theater workers.
• Encouragement to share alternative methods and experiences in the community.

Additional Notes

• The video is educational, with an invitation to like, subscribe, and engage through comments.