In a theatrical production, what does 'upstage' refer to?

In theatrical terminology, 'upstage' refers specifically to the area of the stage furthest away from the audience. This term originates from traditional stages that were often raked, meaning they sloped upwards away from the audience, making the back of the stage the "upstage" area. Understanding this term is crucial for actors and directors, as it informs blocking and movement on stage. When an actor moves upstage, they are physically positioning themselves farther from the audience, which can impact visibility and focus in the performance.

The other options do not accurately represent the correct definition: the area closest to the audience is called 'downstage'; the elevated part of a raked stage is not universal in all theatrical setups and does not define 'upstage'; and the side of the stage used for set changes relates more to practical aspects of staging rather than the defined areas of the performance space.