Stage Lighting Systems: Symbolism

The aim of the theatrical team is to put on the best show possible for the audience. This is achieved by creating the right atmosphere and positioning the audience correctly right from the start and then maintaining this grip over them throughout the entire performance.

Working in a theatrical team means considering all aspects of the performance and the venue, including technical aspects such as lighting and audio.

Stage lighting systems involve items such as spotlights, lighting bars and grids, lighting filters and special effects. The purpose of having such lighting is to create ambiance, dramatic impact and symbolism.

Symbolism is very important in dramatic performances because it can convey a lot of information to the viewer. Firstly, it can suggest a time of day for when a scene is meant to be taking place. For example, at a performance where it is meant to be sunset, filters can be used to help create a dusky effect with a red glow to help the audience visualize the scene more clearly.

A theater group specializing in stage lighting, Manchester based, commented "Spotlights are very popular in theaters because they create great dramatic impact. It can help with monologues in theatrical performances to ensure the viewer is focused on only the actor and nothing else on stage."

Using filters in theatrical performances is also a popular choice as it can create a colorful glow on stage. This can aid a performance in the absence of a set. Some minimalistic performances benefit a great deal from a creative lighting technician who can aid the show with special effects and other lighting solutions.

One theater in Stoke commented, "We put a great deal of effort into our lighting systems because we know how important it is to light the set both practically and dramatically. We also place a great deal of emphasis on our audio systems because again this is very important.

We had a PA system installed to help us practically with announcement calls in the theater, and then we had special speakers installed so that each actor could have a microphone on stage and the sound could be heard by everyone in the auditorium, even the people right at the back. We have in fact created a type of surround sound to make the performance even more effective and to give our viewers the best experience possible."

So to create a mesmerizing show, all aspects need to be present. The stage lighting, sound, equipment such as drapes, props and of course the actors and actresses. Don't sell yourself short by neglecting one of these important factors.

http://www.pgstage.co.uk/ supply, design and install high quality stage lighting and stage sound systems for almost any type and style of venue you can imagine.

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War Horse - Bringing WW1 Cavalry To Life On The West End Stage

War Horse, currently showing at the New London Theatre in Drury Lane, is the re-imagining for stage of the classic children's book first penned by Michael Morpurgo in the 80s. Originally told from the perspective of the horse (Joey), but now re-told through objective means using puppets, the stage performance breathes new life into a horrific, yet moving story of love and war. Joey, is torn from his young owner and shipped off to help the fight against the Germans in the Great War.

The stage performance of War Horse sees Joey turn from trembling foal to full-grown adult before the audiences very eyes. The use of puppetry, adds a new and interesting dimension to the already harrowing story. The excellent work of the Handspring Puppet Company helps the audience forget they are watching puppets and puppeteers and simply get lost in the story. The flick of a tail, the tilt of a head, the galloping charge of the cavalry horses - all work so well, you could almost believe there were live animals on the stage. It is a true magic of theatre. The horse puppets add a new dimension to the play which is lacking in their human counterparts, but since Joey is the main star of the show this works perfectly.

When the play first opened in 2007, the puppetry had audiences and critics stunned - the effect is nowhere near lessened by the passing of time.

War Horse is a truly startling and moving play, re-telling the horrid realities of the First World War from a new perspective as Joey finds himself thrust into the fray; Forced to work for both sides, constantly thrust in harm's way and even lost in no man's land. The play soon has you attached for the inanimate puppet and his plight. Soon enough, his young owner comes to his rescue, risking his own life to save his dear four legged friend.

The cast and the production team did an amazing job of turning the novel into a full-blown stage production - something even the original author did not think possible. And this is a play which has since been enjoyed by thousands of people and will continue to do so for some time to come. Yet, it is terribly moving. The play is both moving and harrowing, when you think of those poor boys and young men being needlessly gassed and maimed in the trenches. The puppet horses of War Horse only add to the misery. You'll soon find yourself holding Joey and his friends dear in your heart, forgetting the strings and puppeteers and simply getting lost in the story.

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