Question

A thrust stage can use the audience’s physical closeness to the production to increase the audience’s feeling of emotional closeness to the characters. True or false?

Answer 1

Answer: True

Explanation: It is true that the structure of a thrust stage in an auditorium tends to create a more natural and intimate setting, both between the audience and the actors/characters as well as between the performers. It can even promote a sense of closeness among the audience members, because they can see one another's reactions better throughout the play. Sometimes, actors will even enter and exit along the side steps for more audience closeness and participation. This is because, in this type of stage, the stage actually extends into the audience seating on all three sides.