Question 1: Define the term 'sound design' in the context of theatre staging.

Answer: Sound design refers to the process of creating, selecting, and integrating sound effects, music, and audio cues to support the mood, setting, and storytelling in a theatrical production.

Question 2: Describe two ways sound can be used to create atmosphere on stage.

Answer: Sound can create atmosphere by using ambient noises like rain or wind to establish outdoor scenes, or by playing tense music during dramatic moments to heighten emotional impact.

Question 3: Explain the importance of timing in sound cues during a performance.

Answer: Timing of sound cues is crucial because it ensures that sounds align perfectly with actors’ actions and dialogue, enhancing realism and maintaining audience immersion.

Question 4: List three types of sound effects that might be used in a play set in a city.

Answer: Traffic noise, sirens, and footsteps on pavement.

Question 5: Describe how a sound engineer might coordinate with actors and stage managers during a live performance.

Answer: A sound engineer communicates with actors and stage managers through cues and signals, ensuring sound effects and music are triggered at precise moments, and adjusts levels as needed for clarity and balance.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram or flowchart showing the process of how a sound cue is triggered during a performance.

Answer: A correct sketch would include: a trigger device (e.g., button or computer), a signal sent to the sound system, and the speaker emitting the sound at the designated moment.

Question 7: Identify and explain two challenges that can arise with live sound effects during a performance.

Answer: Challenges include technical failures like equipment malfunctions, and timing errors where sounds do not synchronize with on-stage action, disrupting the audience’s experience.

Question 8: Sketch a simple stage layout indicating where sound equipment such as speakers and microphones might be placed for optimal effect.

Answer: A correct sketch would show speakers positioned around the stage perimeter, possibly above or behind, with microphones placed near actors or sources of sound, ensuring clear audio delivery.

Question 9: Discuss the difference between diegetic and non-diegetic sound in theatre. Provide an example of each.

Answer: Diegetic sound originates from within the story world, like characters hearing a phone ringing; non-diegetic sound is added for the audience's benefit, such as background music that characters cannot hear.

Question 10: Suggest three ways technology can enhance the use of sound in a modern theatre production.

Answer: Using digital sound editing to create complex soundscapes, wireless microphones for actors to move freely, and automation systems to trigger sound cues precisely.