All the World’s a Stage
All the World’s a Stage
All the World's a Stage: Different Types of Stages in Theatre
By Rylee Vogel
Theatre has been an integral part of society for millennia. Gathering around to watch a performance, speech, or lecture has long served as a way to learn, grow, and communicate. The stage has evolved over time and can take on many different forms. Here are some of the most common stage types found in theatre today:
Proscenium Stages
When people think of a traditional theater, a proscenium stage likely comes to mind. These stages are defined by a proscenium arch, an often-decadent architectural frame surrounding the stage. The stage itself is often deep and may be raked (slightly inclined) to allow for large ensembles and sets to be seen by an audience sitting directly in front of the stage. Usually, the seats are arranged on an incline to allow all audience members to get a good view.
A proscenium stage will often feature an apron (the part of the stage extending past the arch) and an orchestra pit for musicians. Most Broadway stages and opera houses feature this type of stage, making it one of the most recognizable stage designs.
End Stages/Platform Stages
An end stage theater is similar to a proscenium stage in that the audience faces one end of the room. However, unlike a proscenium stage, an end stage is not confined to a traditional theater space and can be adapted for various performance types. End stages have a large variance in quality and size, as many different venues could be categorized as having an end stage.
A common variation of the end stage is a platform stage. Usually, these stages are a
transportable, raised platform at the end of a room. They are ideal for drawing attention to a speaker or performer. Common examples include conferences, panels, band concerts, and pop-up performances.
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Thrust Stage
A thrust stage extends into the audience, with seating on three sides of the stage. This design creates an intimate feel and allows the audience to view the performance from a different perspective. The thrust stage allows the audience to feel involved in the world while still having an anchored perspective of the set. One of the most famous examples of a thrust stage is the Globe Theater in London where many of Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed. This stage was perfect for Shakespearean work because of its ability to connect with audiences.
Theatre-in-the-Round/Arena Theatres
A theater in-the-round, also known as an arena stage, is surrounded by the audience on all sides. These theaters often feature tiered seating to allow the best view. These stages allow the audience to see the production from any angle, so directors are able to take many creative liberties. However, sets and scenery are kept to a minimum to make sure there are no obstructed views. Concerts, sports, and experimental theater tend to thrive in these venues.
Hippodromes
Though not commonly seen today, a hippodrome theater is designed very similarly to an arena theater with audiences surrounding the stage. However, the stage itself is separated from the audience by fencing or a pit. This is because the hippodrome comes from ancient Greece and was frequently used for chariot racing and gladiator fights. Now, a hippodrome theater is most commonly seen at the circus. This is because it is important to keep the audience away from the dangerous acts happening center stage.
Open Air Theatres
An open-air theater, or an amphitheater, is an outdoor performance venue. These spaces take advantage of natural light and weather. There are not many required elements for a theater to be considered open-air; the only non-negotiable is outdoor seating and staging. The theater itself can be an end, thrust, or arena stage. Meaning, the audience can sit from any angle. Lighting can be installed for night performances, and some areas of the audience may have coverings to protect from the elements. These theaters tend to be located in warmer climates or are heavily used during the summer months. Concerts, Shakespeare, and educational theater tends to take place on these stages.
Flexible Theaters
Arguably the most versatile stage format, a flexible theater can be transformed into different stages depending on the production. Black-boxes and studio theaters are some of the most common examples. The walls are painted a solid color (black in a black-box theater) and there is little established in the room. This allows the production to add seating, set pieces, and props to create the world. Flexible theaters are often found in educational facilities and large performing arts complexes because they tend to feature experimental theater. They are also great for lower-
budget productions because there is great potential for suspension of disbelief and the space is versatile.
Found Stages
Theatre is an art form, and sometimes a physical theater is not a requirement. A found stage is a non-performance space that has been converted into one. This can be places like restaurants, shopping centers, gymnasiums, open spaces outdoors, or any place people can gather. A found stage has no requirement for audience placement or depth of stage. These spaces reflect the environment and can create an incredible atmosphere. A found stage is a place where people gather to watch art being made.
Theatre is an opportunity to create. It is a chance to bring ideas to the masses and build a different world. The theater itself is a beautiful medium. Every space has an opportunity to tell a story in a way that leaves a lasting impact, and it is up to the creatives to utilize and take advantage of that space.
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”- William Shakespeare
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