Editing Theatre-in-the-round (section)

== Stage design and performance dynamics ==
In theatre-in-the-round, the stage is positioned at the center with the audience seated on all sides. It is most commonly shaped as a rectangle, circle, diamond, or triangle. Actors typically enter and exit through the audience from various directions or from beneath the stage. The stage is usually level with or slightly below the audience, creating a "pit" or "arena" arrangement.

This configuration is well-suited for high-energy productions and performances that involve audience participation. It is often favored by producers of classical theatre and remains a creative alternative to the more traditional [[proscenium]] stage format.

Theatre-in-the-round effectively eliminates [[Fourth wall|the fourth wall]], placing actors in the same shared space as the audience. This can be challenging for actors trained in proscenium or end-stage formats, where turning one’s back to the audience is discouraged—something that is often unavoidable in this configuration. However, it also enables strong, direct engagement with the audience.

Theatre-in-the-round is also used in non-traditional performance spaces such as restaurants, public squares, or [[street theater]]. [[Set construction|Set design]] is typically minimal to avoid obstructing the audience’s view from any angle.