This document discusses different types of stages used in theater, including the proscenium stage, theater in the round, and thrust stage. It also covers stage directions, body positions, and stage blocking notations. Stage blocking refers to an actor's movement and positioning on stage, with directions like up, down, left, and right defined from the actor's point of view. The document provides information on these theatrical concepts and terms to help in understanding staging.

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.