offstage
UK: ˌɒfˈsteɪdʒ | US: ˌɔːfˈsteɪdʒ
adj. relating to or situated in the area of a theater not visible to the audience
adv. in or to the area of a theater not visible to the audience
The word "offstage" combines "off," meaning "away from," and "stage," referring to the performance platform in a theater. It emerged in the early 20th century to describe actions, areas, or events occurring outside the audience's view, emphasizing the spatial division between visible and hidden theatrical spaces. The term reflects the practical need to distinguish between onstage (performance) and offstage (preparation/private) zones in theater production.
The actors waited offstage for their cue to enter.
Offstage noises disrupted the play's quiet scene.
She preferred the offstage camaraderie to performing.
The director gave instructions to the crew offstage.
His offstage life was far more chaotic than his onstage persona.