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Theatre Arts for Advanced Secondary Schools

Chapter

Three Performing spaces
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Introduction

Theatre performances do not take place in a vacuum. They can take place
either indoor or outdoor. In this chapter, you will learn the meaning of
performing space, types of performing spaces, performing space setting and
parts of stage. The competencies developed will enable you to creatively set
and use the stage according to the nature of your theatre performance.

Think about a performance without a performing space.

Theatre performing space
This is an environment where performance takes place. It is referred to as a place
where theatre audience and performers meet face to face. A performing space can
be an area built exclusively for showing theatrical productions. It can also be a
space meant to be used for other activities but converted into a performing space.
Such places include a playground, a dining hall, a conference hall or a classroom.
In traditional African context, a performing space can be anywhere. It can be
at a playground, in the forest or under the tree. The question where a theatrical
production should take place is one of the key issues theatre directors and the
production crew should consider before they embark on a production process.
The following questions must be considered too. How much does it cost to hire
a space? Does the performing space reflect the nature of the performance? Will
the target audience afford ticket prices? Is the space accessible and reachable in
all circumstances? These are just few questions directors should consider as they
attempt to choose a place where the performance can take place and seek feasible
answers. Figure 3.1 shows the performance at an open space.

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