drama intro

1. STAGE TYPES,
DIRECTIONS,
BODY POSITIONS, AND
BLOCKING

2. STAGE TYPES
PRO SCENIUM
Most common type in Western
theatre
Two separate buildings: horizontal
to contain the house (audience) and
vertical to contain the stage
The two are connected by an
opening through which the audience
views the stage (proscenium arch).
Pro s c e nium means “in front of the
scene.”
Advantages and disadvantages?

3. STAGE TYPES
PRO SCENIUM STAGE TERMS

4. STAGE TYPES
THEATRE IN THE ROUND
Also called arena stage
Advantages and disadvantages?

5. STAGE TYPES
THRUST STAGE
Advantages and disadvantages?

6. STAGE DIRECTIONS

7. BODY POSITIONS

8. STAGE BLOCKING
Blocking is movement and position on stage.
Up is away from the audience.
Down is towards the audience.
Left and right are from the point-of-view of the actor.
Blocking can indicate movement. X means cross. For example, XDL2
means cross downstage left two steps.
See handout for blocking notations.

9. ACTIVITY 1: SIMON SAYS

10. ACTIVITY 2: VAGUE SCENE
You will work in partners to prepare the scene on page 195 of Eve ry thing
Abo ut The a tre !
Some groups will be asked to perform.
This activity will help you not only practice but learn more about staging.