Thursday, July 23, 2015

Why Lighting Is Important To The Theatre

The lighting designer is one of the most decisive citizens involved in the Industry of a play, and one of the most under-appreciated. In many plays, the blessing lighting is what seems most constant, and generally goes unnoticed. The lighting designer's contributions to a parcel of theatre afford a imperative concept of realism, tenor and tension.


Visibility


Lighting can be used to execute a variety of stage directions and special effects. These can range from weather (lightning, snow, rain, clouds) to fire to the illusion of explosions or gunfire.

Focus

The absence of light can also be a useful tool.



Lighting tells the audience if they are inside or elsewhere, what time of year it is, and what time of day it is. Depending on the lighting (including light from set pieces), the lights may even help to set up what period in time the play takes place.


Mood


Lights are the most effective way to set the mood or tone for a play or for any given scene. Natural light can give a sense of normalcy, while the use of gels in dark greens or purples can give a scene an unsettling, otherwordly feel.


Special Effects


The salient design of theatrical lighting is to compose undeniable that the actors are visible. This seems accessible, however it is considerable that the designer has ensured that all areas of the chapter and all actors on that event can be seen when the lights are at entire.

Time and Place

Lighting is too integral to establishing the setting of a play.



By darkening certain portions of the stage, the remaining illuminated areas become focal points, thus directing the attention of the audience.