What is the arena stage used for?



Arena Theater These types of stages are used when no background is required and when the audience needs to engage with the performance from all sides. Although the arena theater can accommodate theatrical performances, this theater type is better suited for other types of events, such as concerts.

What is an arena style stage?

Arena theatres are large scale auditoria and have a central stage area with audiences on all sides, similar to theatres in-the-round. The stage area is usually rectangular, more like a sports arena, with tiered seating.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of an arena stage?

Arena stage





Pros: The audience feel included. Creates an intimate atmosphere. Cons: Sight lines might be an issue so there needs to be lots of movement around the space.

What was the purpose of the stage?

The stage serves as a space for actors or performers and a focal point (the screen in cinema theaters) for the audience. As an architectural feature, the stage may consist of a platform (often raised) or series of platforms.

What makes unique of arena stage?

An Arena stage is characterized by a central stage surrounded by audience on all sides. The stage area is also often raised to improve sightlines.

When was the arena stage first used?

August 16, 1950





Founded August 16, 1950 in Washington by Zelda Fichandler, Tom Fichandler and Edward Mangum, Arena Stage is a flagship American theater. We were one of the first nonprofit theaters in the U.S. and a pioneer of the regional theater movement.

How big is an arena stage?

Stage As a general rule, an auditorium is 35-40 feet deep with a proscenium opening of 40-50 feet wide, and is tall enough to seat an audience of 30-40 people. A side stage should be no larger than half the distance to the proscenium opening on each side.

Where is the audience in an arena theater *?

Arena Theater

An end on stage has audiences on a single side, a thrust stage has audiences on three sides and an arena stage features audiences on all four sides. These types of stages are used when no background is required and when the audience needs to engage with the performance from all sides.



What are the disadvantages of an arena stage?

Cons of the Arena Stage:

  • Can’t use very realistic scenery.
  • Someone’s back is always facing the audience.
  • Can’t use traditional stage areas.