Knowing the parts of a theater helps dancers find their places, understand choreographers’ directions and perform safely. Most ballets are staged in proscenium theaters, where the audience watches through a large arch at the front of the stage.
Parts of the theater
| Area | What it is |
|---|---|
| Proscenium | The frame or arch around the front of the stage |
| Apron | The part of the stage in front of the main curtain |
| Wings | Hidden areas at the sides where dancers wait and enter |
| Backstage | Dressing rooms, crossover passages and storage behind the set |
| Orchestra pit | A lowered area in front of the stage for live musicians |
| Fly system | Ropes and pipes above the stage for scenery and lights |
| Marley | The vinyl dance floor surface laid over the stage |
Stage directions
- Downstage: toward the audience.
- Upstage: away from the audience.
- Stage right and stage left: from the dancer’s point of view facing the audience.
- Center stage: the middle, often marked with tape or a spike mark.
Raked stages
Some older European theaters have a raked stage that slopes up toward the back. Dancers adjust their balance and turns, and companies often rehearse on a raked floor before touring to one.
Studio and stage numbering
Many ballet schools number the corners and walls of the room so dancers know which direction to face. The Cecchetti and Vaganova systems number them differently, so learn your school’s version.
Frequently asked questions
What is stage left in ballet?
The dancer’s left when facing the audience.
What are the wings?
The side areas offstage where dancers wait to enter.
Why is a raked stage harder for dancers?
The slope changes balance, making turns and jumps feel different.
