Downstage vs. Upstage: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on January 17, 2024
"Downstage" refers to the area of a stage closest to the audience, while "upstage" refers to the part furthest away from the audience.
Difference Between Downstage and Upstage
"Downstage" and "upstage" are theatrical terms used to describe specific areas of a stage in relation to the audience's perspective. Historically, stages were raked or slanted with the rear of the stage being higher than the front. Thus, when actors moved towards the audience, they moved "down" the incline, leading to the term "downstage." Conversely, moving away from the audience meant moving "up" the incline, hence "upstage."
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
While both terms are rooted in the physical layout of older theaters, their usage persists even in modern theaters that lack a raked stage. "Downstage" is the portion of the stage that remains closest to the audience, offering a clear and unobstructed view of the actors. This makes it a significant area for moments that demand intimacy or focus. On the other hand, "upstage" is farther from the audience, making it slightly less immediate in its impact.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
Another interesting note is the dynamic these terms create among actors. To "upstage" someone is not just a physical movement but also a metaphorical one. If an actor deliberately draws attention to themselves and away from a fellow performer, they are said to be "upstaging" them, a term rooted in the spatial dynamics of the stage.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
In choreographing a play or performance, directors consider the implications of positioning actors downstage versus upstage. Because of the proximity to the audience, actions and emotions portrayed downstage can be more nuanced, while broader gestures might be required upstage to convey the same intensity.
Jonathan
Dec 07, 2023
Lastly, lighting technicians and set designers also factor in these terms. With actors downstage, lighting might be softer or more direct, while upstage might require stronger illumination to ensure actors are seen clearly by the audience.
Leo
Dec 07, 2023
Downstage vs. Upstage Comparison Chart
Position
Area of the stage closest to the audience.
Area of the stage furthest from the audience.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
Historical Origin
Comes from the front part of the raked stage being lower.
Comes from the rear part of the raked stage being higher.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
Visibility
Offers clear and direct visibility to the audience.
Might require broader actions for the same visibility.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
Emotional Intensity
Can convey more nuanced emotions due to proximity.
Might need exaggerated expressions for clarity.
Levi
Dec 07, 2023
Usage in Context
Often used for intimate or focal scenes.
Used for broader scenes or background actions.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
Downstage vs. Upstage Definitions
◉Downstage
The area of the stage that is closest to the audience.
The actor moved downstage to deliver the monologue.
Henry
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
Relating to the rear portion of the stage in a show.
The upstage backdrop depicted a nighttime skyline.
Nolan
Sep 15, 2023
◉Downstage
A position having prominence or focus in a particular scene.
The lead character stood downstage, capturing everyone's attention.
Muazma Batool
Sep 15, 2023
◉Downstage
Representing actions or events that are significant or central.
The pivotal scene took place downstage, emphasizing its importance.
Nolan
Sep 15, 2023
◉Downstage
In direction, towards or at the front part of the stage.
She gestured for him to come downstage.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
To distract attention from (another performer) by moving upstage, thus forcing the other performer to face away from the audience.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
To divert attention or praise from; force out of the spotlight
a vice president who repeatedly tried to upstage the president.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
(theatre) The part of a stage that is farthest from the audience or camera.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
Toward or at the rear of a theatrical stage.
The actor turned and walked upstage.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉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).
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
At the rear of a stage.
The minimalist play used no upstage scenery.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Downstage
of or pertaining to the front half of a stage. Opposite of upstage.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
To draw attention away from others, especially on-stage.
She only wore that dress to upstage everyone.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Downstage
at the front half of the stage; as, the dialog is clearer when conducted downstage. Opposite of upstage.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
To force other actors to face away from the audience by staying upstage.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Downstage
at or toward the front of the stage;
the actors moved further and further downstage
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
To restage upward; to restage (a case of a disease, usually a cancer) to a higher stage than that found at last assessment.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Downstage
Relating to the foremost part of the stage in a performance.
The downstage lighting was dimmed to create an ambiance.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
move (another actor) upstage, forcing him to turn away from the audience
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
steal the show, draw attention to oneself away from someone else;
When the dog entered the stage, he upstaged the actress
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
of the back half of a stage;
she crossed to the upstage chair forcing the lead to turn his back to the audience
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
remote in manner;
stood apart with aloof dignity
a distant smile
he was upstage with strangers
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
at or toward the rear of the stage;
the dancers were directed to move upstage
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Upstage
The part of the stage farthest from the audience.
The ensemble gathered upstage while the leads sang.
Kaitlyn
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
In direction, towards or at the rear part of the stage.
The props were set upstage.
Nolan
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
To divert attention from someone else, especially in an arrogant manner.
He tried to upstage her during the performance.
Kaitlyn
Sep 15, 2023
◉Upstage
Representing background or secondary actions in a play.
The dancers performed an upstage routine as the main story unfolded.
William
Sep 15, 2023
Downstage vs. Upstage Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use upstage as a verb?
Yes, to upstage means to divert attention from someone else.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
Is upstage always at the back of the stage?
Yes, upstage refers to the rear portion of the stage.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
Why are they called downstage and upstage?
The terms originated from the slanted design of older stages.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
What does it mean to move downstage?
It means moving closer to the audience.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
Is the audience's view clearer downstage or upstage?
Generally clearer downstage due to proximity.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 07, 2023
Are these terms only used in theater?
Primarily, though they can be metaphorically used elsewhere.
Muazma Batool
Dec 07, 2023
Can lighting affect downstage and upstage visibility?
Yes, lighting plays a crucial role in ensuring visibility, especially upstage.
Lucas
Dec 07, 2023
Is downstage always the best place for an actor?
Not always, positioning depends on the scene's requirements and director's vision.
Jonathan
Dec 07, 2023
Do modern theaters still have raked stages?
Some do, but many modern theaters have flat stages.
Henry
Dec 07, 2023
In a non-theatrical context, what does it mean to upstage someone?
It means drawing attention away from them, often in a boastful manner.
Nolan
Dec 07, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
