ABSTRACT
The topic of audience sightlines might appear to be straightforward and technical - the audience must be able to see the performance. They are an important element of auditorium design, yet decisions about sightlines can be highly subjective, even controversial. Sightlines can be obstructed or unobstructed, though obviously an unobstructed sightline is preferred. Before three-dimensional computer modeling, the designer's primary tools were two-dimensional plan and section drawings. In a proscenium theater, horizontal sightlines concern the view of the audience into the proscenium opening. Lower sightlines are limited by railings and the spectators in front of the patron. A parterre is a slightly raised seating area to the rear or sides of the main level that is separated from the main level by a knee wall called a parterre rail. Playhouses tend to have steeper balconies placed closer to the stage.
