hyposkēnion (ὑποσκήνιον) : hy-po-SKAY-nee-on

(Greek; Latinized as hyposcaenium: space beneath the stage). The hyposkēnion was the area under the raised stage (proskenion) in Greek theatre, serving both structural and functional purposes. In Hellenistic theatres, where stages were typically elevated 2.5-4 meters above the orchestra level, the hyposkēnion formed the supporting foundation and front wall of the proskenion. The front of the logeion (stage) was supported by the hyposkēnion (front wall of the proskenion). This space beneath the stage often contained doorways that allowed passage from the hyposkēnion into the orchestra, particularly in theatres like Selge. As theatres evolved for multiple uses, the hyposkēnion became increasingly important for practical staging needs. Sear notes that the area under the stage was called hyposkenion in Greek, but emphasizes that “the word, hyposcaenium, which is frequently used of Roman theatres, has no classical authority.” The Roman adaptation separated the curtain slot from the rest of the hyposcaenium space, demonstrating how this under-stage area served different functions in Greek versus Roman theatrical architecture. In later periods, when theatres were converted for gladiatorial games, passageways were often inserted into the hyposkēnion to allow animals to enter the arena.