Which of the following best describes the purpose of blocking in theatre?

The purpose of blocking in theatre is primarily focused on arranging the movement of actors on stage. This involves determining where actors will stand, how they will move during scenes, and their positioning in relation to one another, the set, and the audience. Effective blocking enhances the overall storytelling by visually complementing the dialogue and actions, and it helps to establish relationships between characters. It also considers sightlines and the use of space for dramatic effect, ensuring that the performance is engaging and coherent for the audience.

While character backstories, line memorization, and emotional connections are essential elements of a performance, they are not the primary functions of blocking. Backstories inform character motivations but do not dictate physical movement. Preventing actors from forgetting lines is more related to rehearsal techniques and prompt cues rather than blocking itself. Developing emotional connections can be enhanced by effective blocking but isn't the primary purpose. Thus, the correct answer reflects the technical aspect of staging that is crucial for any theatrical performance.