Understanding the Proscenium: The Heart of Traditional Theatre

The proscenium is the defining element of proscenium theatre—a grand "picture frame" that separates the acting space from the audience. This architectural feature not only shapes the aesthetic of a performance but also plays a crucial role in how we navigate and communicate within the theatre space. Let's delve into the key aspects of the proscenium and the essential terminology that helps bring a production to life.

Stage Directions: Navigating the Space

Stage directions are always given from the actor's viewpoint while standing center stage and facing the audience:

• Stage Left (SL): To the actor's left.
• Stage Right (SR): To the actor's right.
• Downstage (DS): Moving toward the audience.
• Upstage (US): Moving toward the back wall of the stage.

These directions ensure everyone is on the same page, from performers to crew members, facilitating smooth rehearsals and performances.

The Plaster Line and Center Line

Two critical reference points on the stage are:

• Plaster Line (PL): A line running from the back of one side of the proscenium arch to the other. It essentially marks the upstage edge of the proscenium opening.
• Center Line (CL): An imaginary line running perpendicular to the Plaster Line, dividing the stage into left and right halves.

The intersection of the Plaster Line and Center Line is often referred to as the "zero-zero" point. This point is the origin from which all measurements on stage are taken.

Defining the Theatre Spaces

• Front of House (FOH): Everything downstage (toward the audience) of the Plaster Line. Sometimes called "Ante-proscenium," meaning "before the proscenium."
• On-Stage: Areas visible to the audience.
• Off-Stage or Backstage: Areas hidden from the audience's view.
• Wings: The sides of the stage where actors await their cues and set pieces are stored.
• Fly Loft or Scene House: The space above the stage where scenery, curtains, and lights are suspended.
• Deck: The floor of the stage.

Special Areas

• Apron or Thrust: The part of the stage extending downstage of the proscenium.
• Trap and Traproom: Sections of the stage floor that can be removed, allowing access to the space below.

Key Terminology

• Stage Directions Abbreviations:
  • L: Left
  • C: Center
  • R: Right
  • US: Upstage
  • DS: Downstage
• Fly System Components:
  • Lock Rail: Where the fly system's ropes are secured.
  • Fly Rail: Platform where technicians operate the fly system.
  • Loading Rail: Elevated platform where weights are added to balance the fly system.
  • Grid: The structural framework above the stage supporting the fly system.

Audience and Control Areas

• House: The auditorium where the audience sits.
• Box Boom: Vertical lighting positions on the side walls of the auditorium.
• Beams or Cove: Overhead lighting positions above the audience.
• Booth: The control room for lighting and sound operations.

Behind the Scenes: Ancillary Areas

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