Cross

Definition

In theater, a cross refers to an actor's movement from one part of the stage to another, typically moving from one side to the other. This movement is a key element in blocking and staging as it helps establish the physical relationships between characters and their surroundings, enhancing storytelling. A well-executed cross can direct audience attention, create dynamic stage compositions, and contribute to character development through the use of space.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A cross can be used to indicate a character's emotional state or intention, making it an important tool for actors in conveying their roles.
2. Crossing can also involve changes in levels or planes on stage, such as moving from downstage to upstage or vice versa.
3. The timing and rhythm of a cross can affect the pacing of a scene, impacting how the audience perceives the action.
4. Effective crosses help create a balanced composition on stage, preventing one side from feeling overloaded or empty.
5. Directors often choreograph crosses during rehearsals to ensure that they are purposeful and contribute meaningfully to the storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does a cross impact the relationship between characters during a scene?
  • A cross impacts character relationships by physically changing their proximity and orientation to each other. When one character crosses to another's space, it can signify tension, intimacy, or conflict, thus altering how the audience interprets their interaction. The dynamics established through crosses can reveal underlying emotions and intentions, making them crucial for developing character relationships on stage.
• In what ways can the execution of a cross influence the overall visual composition of a scene?
  • The execution of a cross influences the visual composition by creating lines and shapes that draw the audience's attention. A well-timed cross can lead to visually interesting groupings or dynamic shifts in focus among characters. Additionally, how actors are positioned after crossing can either enhance or detract from the scene's overall aesthetic, reinforcing themes or emotional undertones present in the performance.
• Evaluate the role of crosses in conveying character development throughout a performance.
  • Crosses play a significant role in conveying character development by illustrating changes in relationships and personal growth over time. As characters move across the stage, these movements can symbolize their journey—whether it’s overcoming obstacles or evolving emotionally. Analyzing how often and in what contexts characters perform crosses can reveal deeper narrative arcs and signify transformations that might otherwise go unnoticed without this physical representation.

Related terms

Blocking: The precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance of a play and communicate story elements through their movements.

Staging: The arrangement of scenery and stage properties for a play or film, as well as the overall presentation of the performance.

Stage Directions:

Written instructions in a script that describe the movement, position, and actions of actors on stage.