Theatre Glossary
Whether you're stepping on stage for the first time or picking up a script to read, here's a guide to the terms you'll encounter in the world of theatre.
31 terms in Venues & Spaces
Theatre in the Round
A staging configuration where the audience sits on all sides of the performance space, surrounding the action. Also called "arena staging," this format creates an intimate relationship between performers and audience but presents challenges for blocking (actors must avoid turning their backs to any section for too long) and set design (tall scenery would block sightlines).
Venues & SpacesThrust Stage
A stage configuration that extends out into the audience, with seating on three sides. The thrust combines the presence and intimacy of theatre in the round with the staging possibilities of having a backstage area. Many Elizabethan theatres (including Shakespeare's Globe) used thrust stages, and the configuration remains popular in contemporary theatre design.
Venues & SpacesTraverse Stage
A staging configuration where the audience sits on two opposite sides of a long, narrow playing area, like spectators at a tennis match. Traverse staging creates an intimate, almost voyeuristic relationship between audience and performer, and forces creative blocking since actors always have their back to half the audience. It's particularly effective for confrontational or corridor-like scenes.
Venues & SpacesUpstage
The area of the stage farthest from the audience. Like "downstage," the term originates from raked stages where actors walked "up" the slope when moving away from the audience. "To upstage someone" also means to steal focus from another actor—originally by moving upstage and forcing the other actor to turn away from the audience to face them.
Venues & SpacesVenue
The building or space where a theatrical performance takes place. Venues range from purpose-built theatres with proscenium stages to converted warehouses, outdoor amphitheatres, black box studios, and found spaces. The choice of venue significantly affects the audience experience, staging possibilities, and the economic model of a production.
Venues & SpacesWest End
London's principal commercial theatre district, centred around Shaftesbury Avenue and Covent Garden. The West End is the UK equivalent of Broadway, hosting major productions in historic theatres, many dating from the 19th century. West End shows range from long-running musicals to limited-run plays featuring star actors. The Olivier Awards (now the Olivier Awards) recognise West End excellence.
Venues & SpacesWings
The areas on either side of the stage, hidden from the audience's view by curtains (leg curtains) or flats. Actors wait in the wings before entrances, and scenery and props are stored there for quick deployment. "Waiting in the wings" has become a common expression meaning being ready to take over or step into action.
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