Downstage vs. Upstage: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Downstage refers to the part of a stage closest to the audience, while upstage is the part furthest from the audience.
Key Differences
Downstage is a term in theater that refers to the area of the stage that is closest to the audience. This area is often considered more prominent for actors, as they are nearer to the viewers. Upstage, in contrast, refers to the part of the stage that is furthest from the audience, often used for background action or less prominent scenes.
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When an actor moves downstage, they are moving toward the audience, often gaining more visibility and focus. Moving upstage, conversely, means moving away from the audience, which can sometimes divert attention from the actor or make them less visible.
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In terms of stage design, downstage often requires more detailed scenery and props due to its proximity to the audience. Upstage areas, being further away, can have less detail and are often used for larger backdrops or to create depth.
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The term 'upstaging' originates from this concept, where an actor positioned upstage draws attention away from an actor downstage, typically by making dramatic movements or gestures. This is often considered poor stage etiquette.
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In directing, positioning an actor downstage can emphasize their importance in a scene, while placing an actor upstage can be used to visually represent distance, separation, or a diminished role in the scene.
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Comparison Chart
Visibility
Higher visibility and focus for actors.
Reduced visibility and focus.
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Stage Design
Requires more detailed scenery and props.
Can have less detail, used for larger backdrops.
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Role in Scenes
Often used for prominent scenes or actions.
Used for background action or less prominent scenes.
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Downstage and Upstage Definitions
Downstage
The part of a stage nearest to the audience.
The actor delivered the monologue downstage, close to the viewers.
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Upstage
The stage area where less detail is required.
The upstage area had a simple, abstract backdrop.
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Downstage
An actor's location near the audience for visibility.
The lead actor stood downstage for the final bow.
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Upstage
The act of drawing attention away from another actor.
She unintentionally upstaged her co-star during the scene.
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Downstage
A key area for prominent action in theater.
The climactic scene took place downstage.
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Upstage
A less prominent area for secondary action.
The secondary characters remained upstage during the dialogue.
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Downstage
The stage area requiring detailed scenery due to proximity.
The intricate set design was concentrated downstage.
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Upstage
Movement away from the audience in a performance.
He walked upstage, creating a sense of distance.
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Upstage
To distract attention from (another performer) by moving upstage, thus forcing the other performer to face away from the audience.
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Upstage
To divert attention or praise from; force out of the spotlight
A vice president who repeatedly tried to upstage the president.
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Downstage
To restage downward; to restage (a case of a disease, usually a cancer) to a lower stage than that found at last assessment (compare upstage).
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Upstage
(theatre) The part of a stage that is farthest from the audience or camera.
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Upstage
Toward or at the rear of a theatrical stage.
The actor turned and walked upstage.
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Downstage
Of or pertaining to the front half of a stage. Opposite of upstage.
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Downstage
At the front half of the stage; as, the dialog is clearer when conducted downstage. Opposite of upstage.
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Upstage
At the rear of a stage.
The minimalist play used no upstage scenery.
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Downstage
At or toward the front of the stage;
The actors moved further and further downstage
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Upstage
To draw attention away from others, especially on-stage.
She only wore that dress to upstage everyone.
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Downstage
Movement towards the audience in a performance.
She moved downstage to emphasize her character's emotion.
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Upstage
To force other actors to face away from the audience by staying upstage.
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Upstage
To restage upward; to restage (a case of a disease, usually a cancer) to a higher stage than that found at last assessment.
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Upstage
Move (another actor) upstage, forcing him to turn away from the audience
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Upstage
Steal the show, draw attention to oneself away from someone else;
When the dog entered the stage, he upstaged the actress
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Upstage
Of the back half of a stage;
She crossed to the upstage chair forcing the lead to turn his back to the audience
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Upstage
Remote in manner;
Stood apart with aloof dignity
A distant smile
He was upstage with strangers
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Upstage
At or toward the rear of the stage;
The dancers were directed to move upstage
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Upstage
The part of a stage farthest from the audience.
The background dancers were positioned upstage.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does downstage mean in theater?
Downstage refers to the area of a stage closest to the audience.
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Why is downstage important for actors?
Downstage is important because it offers greater visibility and connection with the audience, making it crucial for key scenes or dialogues.
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Is upstage used for less important scenes?
Upstage is often used for less prominent scenes or to provide background context, not necessarily less important but less in focus.
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How is upstage used in a play?
Upstage is used for scenes or actions that are set further away from the audience, often for background or secondary actions.
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Does downstage require more detailed set design?
Yes, downstage often requires more detailed set design because of its proximity to the audience.
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What happens when an actor moves upstage?
When an actor moves upstage, they create a visual sense of distance or separation from the audience and can divert focus from the front of the stage.
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How does an actor upstage another?
An actor upstages another by drawing the audience’s attention away, either through positioning or more engaging actions.
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Does upstaging have a negative connotation?
Upstaging often has a negative connotation, implying a lack of consideration for fellow actors and the scene’s balance.
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Can an actor be upstaged unintentionally?
Yes, an actor can be upstaged unintentionally if another actor draws attention away, often by being more dynamic or positioned upstage.
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What should actors avoid doing with upstaging?
Actors should avoid drawing attention away from the main action or fellow actors, as it disrupts the scene's focus.
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Can downstage be too close to the audience?
In some theater settings, being too close to the audience in the downstage area can present challenges in terms of sound and spatial dynamics.
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What role does upstage play in set design?
Upstage plays a crucial role in set design by providing context and depth to the stage, often with less detailed but impactful elements.
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What techniques do directors use to manage upstaging?
Directors use blocking, focus points, and actor positioning to manage upstaging and maintain the scene's balance.
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What is the effect of delivering lines downstage?
Delivering lines downstage enhances the actor's connection with the audience and makes the delivery more impactful.
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How do modern theaters address the challenges of upstage and downstage?
Modern theaters address these challenges with advanced sound and lighting technology, versatile set designs, and directorial techniques to enhance both areas.
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Can upstage and downstage be used strategically?
Directors often use upstage and downstage areas strategically to convey distance, importance, or focus in a scene.
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Are there specific genres where upstaging is more prevalent?
In genres like comedy or melodrama, upstaging can be more prevalent as actors use it for comic effect or dramatic emphasis.
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How does an actor's voice projection change between upstage and downstage?
Voice projection must be stronger and more deliberate when an actor is upstage to ensure audibility, compared to the more natural projection downstage.
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How do actors practice movement between upstage and downstage?
Actors practice movement between these areas to ensure fluidity and to understand how it affects their visibility and engagement with the audience.
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How do lighting techniques vary between upstage and downstage?
Lighting techniques differ with more focused and prominent lighting often used downstage, while upstage may have softer or broader lighting.
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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