What does a black hole in stage terms refer to?

In stage terminology, a black hole refers to a part of the stage that is intentionally or accidentally left unlit. This creates a visual absence where no light is present, making it seem as if the area is engulfed in darkness. This effect can be used creatively in theater to enhance the drama or evoke certain emotions, thereby guiding the audience’s focus and influencing their perception of the scene.

Lighting is a crucial element in theater, and strategic darkness is just as important as illumination. This is particularly significant when it comes to scene transitions or to draw attention away from parts of the stage that should not be highlighted at a specific moment in the performance. While an intentionally dark section of the audience might serve a practical purpose in terms of lighting effectiveness, it does not specifically address the concept of a black hole, which pertains strictly to the stage. Similarly, options like a soundproof area or a trapdoor do not align with the definition of a black hole in theatrical contexts, as they refer to different technical aspects of stage design and sound management rather than lighting.