Bühne

Bühne is a German noun meaning stage. It denotes the raised surface on which performers appear, most commonly in a theater, but it can also refer to any elevated platform used for performances, speeches, or exhibitions. The term is also used figuratively to describe the arena where people present themselves or their ideas, for example die politische Bühne (the political stage).

In theater and performing arts, die Bühne encompasses the physical space and its front, sides, and access points. The stage is typically separated from the audience by lighting, scenery, and backstage areas. Related terms include Bühnenbild (set design), Bühnenbeleuchtung or Licht (stage lighting), and Bühnenregie (stage direction). Common expressions include auf der Bühne stehen, die Bühne betreten, and die Bühne freigeben.

Beyond traditional theater, the concept applies to platforms for public events, concerts, or demonstrations where performances or presentations take place. The word is widely used in cultural and media discourse as a metaphor for the place where actors, performers, or institutions present content to an audience, whether in politics, arts, or entertainment.

See also: Bühnenbild, Bühnenlicht, Backstage.