Examine the illustrations below of the space in which all the action takes place: the theatre itself.
Lighting
Stage right
Backdrop
Stage Left
Costume Prop Trapdoor Apron Backdrop The scenery that hangs behind the actors in a play.
Lighting Any source of light used in a theatre performance including a lamp, a candle or large electric spotlights.
Costume A set of clothing, especially of a particular historical period or particular country, used during a play.
Apron
Props Set
The part of the stage that can still be seen when the curtain is closed. In Shakespeare’s time this jutted right out into the audience.
A prop is any portable object or piece of furniture used on stage during a performance. When we refer to the backdrop and props together we are referring to the set of a play. Trapdoor A concealed opening, usually in the stage floor. It allows for fast exits and entrances.
An important function for stage directions is to tell the actors their positions on stage. For example, downstage is at the front, near the audience and upstage is at the back. Study the image to make these positions clear.
