The stage
Opera singers must act on stage as well as sing! This means they have to understand the stage set-up. When the stage director is rehearsing with the singers, he or she must be clear about where everybody should be at any given point in time—otherwise there could be a big traffic jam. Special terms are used to avoid confusion. For instance, “upstage” is at the very back of the stage (away from the audience) and “downstage” is at the front (near the audience).
Amphitheatre
Highest section of seats in a theatre (above the balconies and galleries). Also refers to a large building or hall consisting of a circular or oval performance area surrounded by tiers of seats (like a football stadium or the Coliseum).
Backstage
The part of the stage the audience can't see (the actors' dressing rooms, etc.)
Border
Strip of curtain across the front top of the stage used to mask elements hanging from the flies.
Centre stage
Middle of the stage (between the curtain and up stage) where most of the action unfolds.
Cyclorama
Circular curtain or wall placed up stage and used as backing for scenery and action.
Downstage
The part of the stage located in front of the curtain.
Apron
Immobile section of the stage in front of the curtain.
Flies
Space above the stage, hidden from the audience, where sets and lighting equipment can be suspended on rails, ready to be lowered or lifted as needed.
Pit
The lower space in front of the stage for the orchestra and conductor.
Proscenium
Mobile space in front of the apron.
Stage left
The part of the stage that is to the audience's right.
Stage right
The part of the stage that is to the audience's left.
Upstage
The part of the stage that is furthest from the audience.
Wings
The sides of the stage through which singers enter or exit during the performance.