What is Orchestra pit?
[[File:Orchestra Pit (49219642583).jpg|thumb]] An '''orchestra pit''' is the space where an [[orchestra]] plays in a [[theatre]] or [[opera house]]. The [[actor]]s or [[singer]]s are on the [[Stage (theatre)|stage]], and the orchestra pit is normally lower than the stage so that the [[audience]] can watch the [[Play (theatre)|play]] or [[opera]]. Depending on where they sit, the audience may just be able to see the heads of the [[musician]]s in the orchestra pit. It is important that singers can see the [[Conducting|conductor]] so that they can watch the beat out of the corner of their eye. Opera houses nowadays often have [[Closed-circuit television|close-circuit television]] monitors at the sides so that singers can watch the conductor even when they are not facing him. The orchestra pit in the [[Bayreuth Festspielhaus]] is unusual. This opera house was designed by the [[composer]] [[Richard Wagner]] for the performance of his own operas. He did not want the audience to be able to see the orchestra at all, so it is very low. The orchestra members do not have to dress up in ties and jackets because they cannot be seen anyway. {{performing-arts-stub}} [[Category:Theater]]