The phrase "more upstage" refers to a direction on stage. The spelling of "upstage" reflects its theatrical origin, where the stage is slanted towards the audience, and the part furthest away from them is called the upstage area. The word is pronounced /ʌpˈsteɪdʒ/ with stress on the second syllable. The addition of "more" before it simply indicates a greater distance towards the back of the stage. Correct spelling of this term is important for clear communication in theatre and performing arts.
The term "more upstage" is a theatrical expression used to describe the positioning of an actor or object that is located further away toward the back of the stage. In the context of a proscenium stage, which is the most common and traditional stage type, "more upstage" refers to the area farthest from the audience in the upstage direction.
The upstage area is positioned opposite to the apron or the part of the stage closest to the audience. When something or someone is referred to as "more upstage," it means they are positioned even further away from the audience compared to objects or actors that are simply categorized as being "upstage." This term is primarily used to instruct actors or stagehands when discussing stage arrangements or directions.
The purpose of utilizing the concept of "more upstage" is to control the spatial composition and perspective on the stage, guiding the audience's gaze and focus. By positioning elements "more upstage," they can be visually isolated or placed in the background, creating depth and dimensions on the stage. This technique is often employed to establish a sense of hierarchy or emphasize particular actions or characters within a scene.
Overall, "more upstage" denotes the positioning of an object, actor, or action that is located farther away from the audience, at the back of the stage, in order to orchestrate visual depth and perspective on the theatrical platform.
The phrase "more upstage" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words or concepts. Here is a breakdown of each part:
1. "More": The word "more" derives from the Middle English word "more", which comes from the Old English word "māra". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "maizô" and can be traced back to the Indo-European root "*mē-", meaning "big" or "great". "More" is commonly used to indicate a greater quantity or degree.
2. "Upstage": The word "upstage" originates from the theater world. It refers to the rear part of the stage, situated farthest from the audience. The term comes from a time when stages were raked or sloped, with the upstage area positioned higher.