Lecture Notes: Arena Stage in Theater

Introduction

• The Arena Stage, also known as theater in the round, is a popular type of theater space.
• First professional theater in the round established in the US in 1947.
• Arena Stage offers creative opportunities for live theater.

Configuration and Characteristics

• Surrounded by the audience, stage can be round or square.
• Four aisles lead from the audience to the stage.
• No Stage House; actors enter and exit through the aisles.
• No single "strong block" for actors; positions depend on actor orientation.

Staging Techniques

• Clock and Aisle Technique:
  • Stage floor visualized as a clock.
  • Positions referred to by clock times (e.g., 9:00, 3:00).
  • Actors move in clockwise or counterclockwise directions.
• Importance of Aisles:
  • Open aisle position is crucial, similar to thrust space.
  • Four open aisle positions influence actor placement and movement.
• Center Stage Traffic:
  • Important for actor movement.
  • Movements include swing out (curved outward) and swing in (curved inward).

Actor Positioning

• Actors can't form an imaginary triangle like in prenium spaces.
• Twist the Pairs:
  • Actors face opposite halves of the audience.
  • Creates an 'over the shoulder' look, familiar from film and television.

Set Design Challenges

• No conventional Scenic walls; sightlines of the audience must remain clear.
• Creative solutions required, such as low furniture at the edges.
• Use of chandeliers and hanging scenery to enhance atmosphere.

Advantages of Arena Stage

• Brings audience closer to the action, creating intimacy.
• Challenges in scenery creation can inspire creativity in set design.
• Enhances the presentation of theater's main art object—dramatic action.
• Offers a more life-like observation of action compared to other spaces.

Conclusion

• Arena Stage is favored for its emphasis on live dramatic action and human experience.
• Despite challenges, it is considered superior by some for its immersive experience.
• End of section; prepare for the next task.