Theater Terminology and Areas
Wings, Balcony, Fly System, and House
The wings are areas offstage, out of sight of the audience and are typically masked with legs. They are used by performers preparing to enter, for storage of sets during scene changes, and as work areas for stagehands. The balcony is the highest seats in the theatre, sitting at the top of the auditorium. The fly person directs and supervises the movements of scenery between the fly floor and stage during a show. The house refers to any area where the audience is seated, including the lobby, coat check, and restrooms.
Stage Configuration and Elements
Traverse Stage, Crosses, and Curtains
The traverse stage playing area is surrounded by audience seating on two sides, resembling a fashion show runway. A cross is moving from one part of the stage to another, while a counter cross adjusts for another actor’s cross. Stage curtains or drapes, such as the front curtain, masking, cross-stage, and backdrop curtains, are used to close off areas from the audience’s view.
Stage Components and Movement
Describing Stage Sections, Wings, and Curtains
Stage directions include center stage, stage right, stage left, upstage, and downstage, guiding actors to different stage areas. The seating area for the audience is referred to as the house.
Stage Adaptation and Functionality
Permanent versus Adaptable Stage Spaces
Some theaters have permanent stages, while others can adapt the stage area specifically to a production, sometimes referred to as a black box theater. Offstage spaces are used by performers and crew alike for various needs.