Boxes at the back are a more modern invention and would only be found in very large theatres where there is a full "level" of boxes in a ring. The Royal Opera

Boxes at the back are a more modern invention and would only be found in very large theatres where there is a full "level" of boxes in a ring. The Royal Opera House in London springs to mind. If you've ever been to a west-end show you'd be surprised how small the theatres are by modern standards. There a box is at the side and has surprisingly bad view of the stage. It's to be seen by others. Which is why most west-end theatres don't sell seats in them - you'd not see much. There are exceptions of course.