forestage
Noun: 1. The part of a modern theater stage between the curtain and the orchestra (i.e., in front of the curtain): The forestage is the forward section of a theater's performance area that extends toward the audience, often used for scenes that require greater intimacy or direct address.
The term "forestage" is a technical theater term. It is used to describe a specific architectural area of a proscenium stage. It is often synonymous with "apron" in modern theater terminology. - The actor stepped onto the forestage to deliver a soliloquy directly to the audience. - During the renovation, they extended the forestage to bring the performers closer to the seats.
- "To play on the forestage": To perform a scene in the downstage area in front of the main curtain.
- The director chose to play the confessional scene on the forestage to create a more immediate connection.
- Apron (n): A common synonym for forestage in theater design.
- The apron was used for the comedian's stand-up routine before the main show.
- Proscenium (n): The arch or frame separating the stage from the auditorium. The forestage is located in front of the proscenium arch.
- Downstage (adv., adj.): The stage area nearest the audience. The forestage is the most downstage part.
- Apron: The part of the stage in front of the proscenium arch.
- Thrust stage: While not identical, a thrust stage extends into the audience and shares the forestage's characteristic of bringing performance forward.
In historical or non-proscenium theaters, the concept of a "forestage" may refer more generally to any performing area that projects in front of a background or scenic element. Its defining feature is its position as the area closest to the audience in front of a primary separation (like a curtain or arch).
- the part of a modern theater stage between the curtain and the orchestra (i.e., in front of the curtain)