Question 1: Describe three different ways sound can be used to create atmosphere during a scene in a play.

Answer: Sound can create atmosphere by using background music to set the mood, sound effects like thunder or footsteps to suggest environment, and character voices or whispers to indicate secrecy or tension.

Question 2: Explain the purpose of using a microphone on stage and how it can affect the audience's experience.

Answer: A microphone amplifies actors' voices so the audience can hear clearly, especially in large venues. It helps maintain clarity and ensures all audience members can understand the dialogue, enhancing engagement.

Question 3: List three different sound effects that could be used to support a scene set in a busy marketplace.

Answer: Sounds of chatter and shouting, clattering of carts or stalls, and footsteps or market sounds like coins jingling.

Question 4: Describe a scenario where silence or the absence of sound can be as powerful as loud sounds in staging a scene.

Answer: Silence can build tension during a dramatic revelation or confrontation, making the audience focus intensely on the actors' expressions and movements, heightening emotional impact.

Question 5: What are three considerations a director should keep in mind when choosing sound effects for a performance?

Answer: Relevance to the scene, timing and synchronization with actions, and the volume level to ensure clarity without overpowering dialogue.

Question 6: Sketch a simple stage layout indicating where speakers might be placed to create a surround sound effect during a scene. (Describe your sketch in words).

Answer: A sketch should show at least four speakers positioned at different points around the stage: front left, front right, rear left, and rear right, to envelop the audience with sound.

Question 7: Explain how different sound cues can be used to transition smoothly between scenes.

Answer: Sound cues like a fade-out of music, a sound effect indicating change (e.g., door closing), or a sudden loud noise can signal scene transitions and guide the audience seamlessly.

Question 8: Draw a simple diagram of a basic sound system setup for a small stage performance. Label the main components.

Answer: A correct diagram would include a microphone, a mixing console, speakers, and an amplifier, with lines indicating connections between these components.

Question 9: Describe how technology can assist in controlling sound during a performance.

Answer: Technology like sound mixers and digital playback devices allow precise control over volume, timing, and effects, enabling sound to be adjusted quickly and accurately during the performance.

Question 10: Think about a horror scene. How could sound be used to increase suspense and fear? Provide two examples.

Answer: Using sudden loud noises like a scream or bang to startle the audience, and eerie background sounds like whispers or dripping water to build tension.