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THEATRE 101

New to the theatre or just looking for additional knowledge? Take a look at some of the commonly used terms on the stage here at the Dakota.
About the Space
•The Lobby: The area where the audience gathers before, during intermission, and after performances.  Restrooms, concession stands, and the ticket booth/box office are located in the lobby.
•The House: The area where the audience sits. 
•Light and Sound Booth: Where the lighting and sound control boards are located.  Located above the audience in the rear of the house.
•The Stage House: The area including the stage and the fly space above (where scenery and lights are suspended on ropes or “flown”). 
•Proscenium Arch: The picture frame through which the scenery and action are viewed.
•Grand Drape:   The front curtain, which is typically made of luxurious fabric in deep colors.
•Apron: An acting area than extends forward beyond the arch on a proscenium stage.
•Backstage: All areas other than the stage, house, and lobby in a theatre.  The dressing rooms and make up rooms are backstage.
Stage and Body Direction
When facing the audience the actors body may be turned in in various directions.
A profile view would be so the audience can see the actors side (right or left).
Cheating is turning one's body towards the audience.
Stage positions are from the actor's point of view (facing the audience).
The stage is divided into three segments across (Right, Center Left) and three segments deep (Upstage, Center, Downstage).
On either side of the stage the areas outside of the view of the audience are known as wings (left and right).
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