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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.
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•The House: The area where the audience sits. 
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•Light and Sound Booth: Where the lighting and sound control boards are located.  Located above the audience in the rear of the house.
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•The Stage House: The area including the stage and the fly space above (where scenery and lights are suspended on ropes or “flown”). 
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•Proscenium Arch: The picture frame through which the scenery and action are viewed.
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•Grand Drape:   The front curtain, which is typically made of luxurious fabric in deep colors.
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•Apron: An acting area than extends forward beyond the arch on a proscenium stage.
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•Backstage: All areas other than the stage, house, and lobby in a theatre.  The dressing rooms and make up rooms are backstage.
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Stage and Body Direction
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When facing the audience the actors body may be turned in in various directions.
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A profile view would be so the audience can see the actors side (right or left).
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Cheating is turning one's body towards the audience.
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Stage positions are from the actor's point of view (facing the audience).
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The stage is divided into three segments across (Right, Center Left) and three segments deep (Upstage, Center, Downstage).
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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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