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Stage Directions and Blocking Basics
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Upstage
The area of the stage furthest from the audience, towards the back wall.
Downstage
The area of the stage closest to the audience, towards the front edge.
Stage Left
The area of the stage to the actor's left when facing the audience.
Stage Right
The area of the stage to the actor's right when facing the audience.
Center Stage
The middle area of the stage, equidistant from the sides.
Proscenium
The type of stage that includes an arch; the audience sits on one side facing the stage.
Thrust
A type of stage that extends into the audience, who are seated on three sides.
Arena
A stage completely surrounded by the audience, also known as 'theater in the round'.
Blocking
The precise staging of actors on a stage in order to facilitate the performance.
Cross
An actor's movement from one area of the stage to another, often to a new position.
Beat
A smaller section within a scene, denoting a shift in action or emotion.
Wings
The offstage areas to the left and right of the performance space.
Fly
The system above the stage from which scenery, drapes, and lights are hung and can be moved up and down.
Cheat Out
When an actor positions themselves towards the audience while seemingly interacting with other characters.
Spike
A mark placed on the stage floor, typically with tape, to indicate the correct position for set pieces, props, or actors.
Green Room
A room where performers can relax before or after performances, or while waiting to go onstage.
Break a Leg
A traditional phrase said to performers for good luck before they go on stage.
Curtain Call
The cast's appearance on stage after the performance to acknowledge the audience's applause.
Cold Reading
A reading of a script done by actors who have not previously reviewed the play material.
Prompt Book
The production script containing all the actor moves, technical cues, and other stage directions.
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