Introduction to live theatre: Lighting and sound design

In this lesson, we will begin to explore how to describe and analyse live theatre, looking at a short extract from a play.

Introduction to live theatre: Lighting and sound design

In this lesson, we will begin to explore how to describe and analyse live theatre, looking at a short extract from a play.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. In this lesson, students will watch a short extract from a theatre production and begin to develop a personal response. Using acting terminology to describe the performers' use of skills, they will comment on how the performers interpreted their roles.

Content guidance

  • Physical activity required.

Supervision

Adult supervision recommended.

Licence

This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.

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5 Questions

Q1.
Why do we use lighting design in theatre?
Correct answer: For dramatic effect and to change the atmosphere.
To help the audience find their seats.
To make the costumes look more colourful.
Q2.
What does 'describe' mean?
Correct answer: Give an account of something in detail.
Question something.
State a fact.
Q3.
What does 'analyse' mean?
To calculate the sum of something.
Correct answer: To examine something in detail and explain why choices were made.
To give a command.
Q4.
Which of the following words could be used to describe sound?
Focus, brightness, colour.
Correct answer: Volume, tempo, duration.
Width, length, depth.
Q5.
Why would we add sound effects in to a theatre production?
It means we can charge more for tickets.
Correct answer: Sound can create a sense of time period, location or atmosphere.
To make sure the audience stay awake.

5 Questions

Q1.
What is a strobe light?
A light used to illuminate the whole stage.
Correct answer: A quick flashing bright light.
A tightly focused beam lighting one area of the stage.
Q2.
Sound in the theatre can be...
A distraction from the acting.
Made by the audience.
Correct answer: Pre-recorded or live.
Q3.
How was the storm created in Treasure Island?
Blue lighting and water spray.
Red lighting and smoke.
Correct answer: Strobe lighting and thunder sound effects.
Q4.
What are the two types of white light?
Dim and bright.
On and off.
Correct answer: Warm and cool.
Q5.
How could you describe the volume of sound?
Bright, dim, intense, fade.
Classical, rock, pop, synth.
Correct answer: Deafening, quiet, loud, subtle.

Lesson appears in

UnitDrama / Live theatre responses: Becoming a critic