What Are the 4 Types of Theatre Spaces?

Theatre Performance Spaces

Theatre performance spaces fall into four categories: proscenium theatres, thrust theatres, arena theatres, and found spaces.

1. Stage Directions

   • Center stage, stage right, stage left, upstage, and downstage.
   • Temporary staging called risers elevated above the first rows of the audience.

2. Proscenium Arch Theatre

   • Looks like a picture frame with the audience facing the stage.
   • Hides large scenery, typical of school halls.

3. Theater Areas

   • The house seats the audience.
   • The stage hosts the performance.
   • The backstage area supports the performance and preparation.

Four Basic Forms of Theater

Theatre spaces have four forms: arena, thrust, end, and flexible stages.

1. Stage Directions and Seating

   • Center, right, left, up, and downstage.
   • The house seats the audience, the stage hosts performances, backstages support them.

2. West End Theaters

   • Refers to London’s theaters near Oxford, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly.
   • Stalls seats near stages enhance proximity.

3. Uniqueness of Theaters

   • Most theaters categorize into four forms of seating.
   • The stage enables actors to embody characters and engage audiences.

Lighting Design in Theaters

• Lighting design illuminates the stage.
• Theatre spaces benefit performers and audiences differently.