What distinguishes "front of house" from "backstage" in a theater?

The distinction between "front of house" and "backstage" in a theater is fundamentally based on accessibility and visibility to the audience. Front of house encompasses all the areas that are open and accessible to the audience, such as the auditorium, lobby, and restrooms. These areas are designed for audience engagement and comfort during performances.

Conversely, backstage refers to all the areas that are out of sight from the audience during a performance. This includes the stage itself, dressing rooms, storage areas, and technical zones that support the production. These spaces are crucial for the cast and crew to prepare and organize for performances without the audience's observation.

Understanding this distinction is essential for anyone involved in theater, as it maintains the separation of the audience experience from the behind-the-scenes work that brings a production to life. The other options confuse the definitions or misattribute functions of these areas, which can lead to a misunderstanding of theater operations.