Getting Upstaged

Getting upstaged is a common expression in the theater. It can happen figuratively, but I'm going to talk about it figuratively.

Right here in this picture is a great example of what you SHOULD do if there is an actor downstage of you. See how the actress in blue is still visible? She knows to shift her body weight on the sofa so that the audience can still see her, even though the actress in black is downstage. (Please view my earlier post titled "Upstage, Downstage" if you're unfamiliar with these terms.)

It is important to remember that it is the upstage actor's job to make sure he can be seen. The downstage actor is probably speaking, he may be facing out to the audience, he may be reacting to something. Most assuredly, he's got his back to you people who are upstage. In that case, since he's probably busy, and doesn't have eyes in the back of his head, this is wh

y the upstage actor can't blame the downstage actor for blocking him. He can't see you! Just counter and shift naturally so that you can be seen by the audience.

Now this is a bad example. See how there's the skirt and shoes of the upstage actress, but you can't see her face? If she had just scootched left or right, she wouldn't be upstaged.

So know you know! Stay visible out there!