Which stage technique would be utilized to create the illusion of distance or size differences?

The utilization of forced perspective is essential in creating the illusion of distance or size differences on stage. This technique involves manipulating the size and placement of objects in relation to the audience’s viewpoint. For example, items placed closer to the audience will appear larger while those positioned further away will seem smaller. This clever use of scale tricks the eye and enhances the visual storytelling, making the performance more immersive.

In contrast, while set design contributes to the overall aesthetic and environment of a production, it does not specifically focus on the perception of size or distance. Stage blocking refers to the movement and positioning of actors on stage, which is crucial for staging a scene but does not directly influence visual perspective. Set scaling is not a recognized theatrical term, contrasting with established concepts like forced perspective.