Upstage/Downstage
Upstage and Downstage are basic terms used in theater to describe an actor's position on stage. 'Upstage' means the back of the stage (farther from the audience), while 'Downstage' means the front of the stage (closer to the audience). These terms come from traditional theaters where stages were sloped - the back was literally higher than the front. Today, even on flat stages, these terms are still used to communicate positioning. When reading resumes or job descriptions, seeing these terms indicates that a candidate understands basic stage directions and theatrical terminology.
Examples in Resumes
Directed actors in complex Upstage/Downstage movement patterns for 'Romeo and Juliet'
Choreographed a 20-person musical number utilizing both Upstage and Downstage areas effectively
Trained new actors in basic stage positioning including Upstage/Downstage terminology
Typical job title: "Theater Directors, Stage Managers, Performers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Theater Directors, Stage Managers, Performers
Theater Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you use upstage and downstage positions to create dramatic impact in large ensemble scenes?
Expected Answer: A senior director or choreographer should explain how they use depth of stage to create visual hierarchy, manage focus, and create dramatic tension through strategic positioning of performers.
Q: How do you teach spatial awareness and stage positioning to a large cast?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of teaching techniques, rehearsal methods, and how to manage multiple performers while maintaining clear sight lines and balanced stage pictures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Why might you position an important scene upstage rather than downstage?
Expected Answer: Should explain how upstage positioning can create distance, power dynamics, or draw attention through forced perspective, showing understanding of theatrical staging principles.
Q: How do you handle transitions between upstage and downstage movements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how to create smooth, motivated movement patterns and maintain stage balance during position changes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic difference between upstage and downstage?
Expected Answer: Should clearly explain that upstage is the back of the stage (away from audience) and downstage is the front (closer to audience), showing basic understanding of stage terminology.
Q: What does it mean when someone says they're being 'upstaged'?
Expected Answer: Should explain this common theater term where one performer draws focus from another by moving upstage, forcing them to turn their back to the audience.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of stage directions
- Following positioning instructions
- Basic blocking notation
- Understanding sight lines
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex movement coordination
- Teaching basic stage positions
- Managing group stage dynamics
- Creating balanced stage pictures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced staging techniques
- Ensemble movement direction
- Strategic use of stage depth
- Training and mentoring others
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic stage directions
- Lack of spatial awareness terminology
- No understanding of sight lines
- Unfamiliar with standard theater terminology
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