What does a raked stage refer to in theatre?

A raked stage refers specifically to a stage that is sloped upwards towards the back, or upstage, area. This design allows for enhanced sightlines, ensuring that audience members can see performers more clearly, especially in larger venues. The upward tilt helps create a sense of depth on stage, making it visually more dynamic. It can also assist in achieving a more dramatic effect, as it can influence how lighting and staging elements appear from the audience's perspective.

In contrast, a stage that is flat and level does not provide this visual effect or benefit to sightlines that a raked stage does. A stage designed for outdoor performances might incorporate different construction methods or materials but is not inherently related to the concept of being raked. A stage with multiple levels might involve tiered platforms but does not necessarily imply a consistent upward slope like that of a raked stage. Therefore, the definitive characteristic of a raked stage is its sloped design leading upwards towards the rear, enhancing both sightlines and the overall stage composition.