The arena stage is one that is in the middle of the audience. This unique stage type is best for smaller venues. The actors need to make their entrances and exits through the audience - there is no back stage. Also, since the audience is on every side, the characters need to make sure that too much time is not spent facing one direction with their back to part of the audience. Because it is 'in' the audience it lends itself to a more presentational type of performance.