Basic Details
Word: Backstage
Part of Speech: Adverb/Noun
Meaning: The area behind the stage in a theatre where performers prepare before a show or where equipment and scenery are stored.
Synonyms: Behind the scenes, offstage
Antonyms: Onstage, foreground
Idioms and Phrases
- Behind the curtain: Refers to hidden actions or events that are not visible to the audience. Example: "Much of the work in theatre happens behind the curtain before the show starts."
- Take centre stage: Means to be in the spotlight or receive public attention. Example: "After her impressive performance, she took centre stage during the award ceremony."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The actors were preparing backstage, putting on their costumes and going over their lines before the show.
Example 2: The director gave final instructions to the crew backstage to ensure everything was ready for the performance.
Example 3: The excitement grew as we waited backstage, ready to make our entrance in front of the audience.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the concept of "backstage" dates back to ancient Greek theatres, where performers would wait behind a curtain before stepping onto the stage to entertain the audience?
Famous Quote
"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." - William Shakespeare
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "backstage" mean?
a) The front of the stage
b) The area behind the stage
c) An audience member
d) A type of play
Answer: b) The area behind the stage
2. Which of these is a synonym of "backstage"?
a) Offstage
b) In front
c) Underneath
d) Onstage
Answer: a) Offstage
3. What is the opposite of "backstage"?
a) Offstage
b) In the wings
c) Onstage
d) Behind the scenes
Answer: c) Onstage
4. Which sentence uses "backstage" correctly?
a) The magician disappeared backstage during his act.
b) The flowers were placed backstage for display.
c) She sang backstage for the audience.
d) He painted the backdrop backstage himself.
Answer: d) He painted the backdrop backstage himself.
5. What does "take centre stage" mean?
a) To prepare behind the scenes
b) To receive public attention
c) To perform a dance
d) To exit the stage
Answer: b) To receive public attention
