What is "apron stage"

The apron is any part of the stage that extends past the proscenium arch and into the audience or seating area. The Elizabethan stage, which was a raised platform with the audience on three sides, is the outstanding example.

Most stages edges are curved slightly outward providing a very small apron. Some have a large playing space protruding into the audience and in turn a very large apron.

The Globe has a rectangular stage platform, also known as an 'apron stage', thrust out into the middle of the open-air yard. The stage measured approximately in width, in depth and was raised about off the ground. On this stage, there was a trap door for use by performers to enter from the "cellarage" area beneath the stage.

An apron stage can also be another name for a thrust stage.