In a
theatre, the orchestra pit is usually just in front of, or underneath the
stage. During a
performance, this is where the
orchestra will be. The
conductor will normally
stand at the front of the
pit, so that he can
conduct the
orchestra (below him), and the
singers (above him). If he is not in a
position where the
singers can see him, there can often be a
video camera set up, with
monitors either at the front of the
stage, or in the
auditorium.
It a lot of
theatres, the orchestra pit can be covered for
shows where an
orchestra is not needed - this can give extra space on
stage, or just in front of it.
If you're after any other theatre tech information, then do take a look at '
Everything you ever wanted to know about theatre tech, but were afraid to ask'