What does the term 'distribution' refer to in stage lighting?

The term 'distribution' in stage lighting specifically pertains to the focus and coverage of light on the performance area. It encompasses how light is spread over the stage, influencing how effectively it illuminates actors, sets, and props. Proper distribution ensures that areas requiring visibility and emphasis are properly lit while minimizing shadows and unwanted over-lapping of light. This is crucial for enhancing the visual narrative of a production, as it determines what the audience sees and how they perceive the action on stage.

Although intensity, angle, and clarity are important aspects of lighting design, they do not encapsulate the meaning of 'distribution' as it relates to the overall coverage and focus of light in a theatrical context.