The Encyclopedia of Interactive Performance

When the focus of a scene is on something that’s happening elsewhere, that’s offstage action. In most cases, it’s best to focus on what’s going on between you and the spect. Don't put the primary focus on offstage characters, activities, or locations. Keep the spect at the center of the action by focusing on what’s going on between you.

There are times when offstage action can be useful. You may need to talk about things when they can't be played out on the stage. Reflection scenes give specs the opportunity to talk about the things that have happened to them earlier.

Not all offstage action should be avoided, but for the most part, keep the focus on what’s going on between the characters in the present moment.