Theatre in the round

Theatre "In The Round" is any theatre space in which the audience is seated on all sides of the stage. The stage itself in this arrangement is typically round, square, or triangular, with actors entering and exiting through the audience from different directions. Such a space is usually configured with the stage on an even level with or lowered below the audience in a "pit" or "arena" formation. This configuration lends itself to high-energy productions, and is especially favored by producers of classical theatre. Theatre in the round was common in ancient theatre, particularly that of Greece and Rome, but was not widely explored again until the latter half of the 20th century.

Related Topics:
Theatre - Greece - Rome

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Theater in the round presents problems since actors at all times have their back facing some members of the audience. However, it also allows for interesting and realistic staging. The configuration is also commonly employed when theatrical performances are presented in non-traditional spaces such as restaurants, public areas such as fairs or festivals, or street theatre.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

There are only two theatre buildings in the United States that were built as "in the round" houses. The first is the Penthouse Theatre, located at the University of Washington in Seattle which opened in 1940. The second is the Ula Love Doughty Carousel Theatre, located at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Related Topics:
University of Washington - University of Tennessee

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~