How are prosthetics used in stage performances?

Prosthetics in stage performances are utilized primarily as special effects worn by actors to transform their appearance or to enhance their characters in a significant way. This can include makeup appliances, facial prostheses, body parts, or even full-body suits that alter the actor's physical appearance. They allow performers to embody various roles more convincingly, whether that involves portraying characters with disabilities, aging, fantasy creatures, or other transformations that contribute to storytelling.

The use of prosthetics remains critical in achieving a high level of realism or stylization appropriate to the production's artistic vision, making it possible for audiences to suspend disbelief and engage more fully with the performance. This is distinct from other options, which either involve different aspects of production (like sound, lighting, or set design) rather than directly interacting with the actors and their portrayals.