proszeniums

A proscenium is a term used in theater to describe the part of a theater stage that extends forward from the downstage edge of the curtain to the end of the stage. It is the area that is visible to the audience, framed by the proscenium arch. The proscenium arch is a structural feature that separates the stage from the auditorium. This arch is often ornate and serves as a decorative element in itself.

The proscenium stage configuration is one of the oldest and most common types of stage design. It creates a clear separation between the performers and the audience, with the audience looking in at the action as if it were a picture frame. This type of stage is well-suited for a wide variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and operas. It allows for elaborate set designs and lighting effects, as the stage is generally enclosed.

The term "proscenium" can also refer to the entire stage area within the proscenium arch, including the acting space, wings, and backstage areas. However, in its most common usage, it specifically denotes the forward-most part of the stage that is visible to the audience. The proscenium arch itself can vary greatly in size and style, from simple, unadorned openings to grand, elaborately decorated structures. The presence of a proscenium arch often dictates the aesthetic and practical considerations for a theatrical production.