Question 1: Describe three different types of sound effects that could be used to create atmosphere in a scene set in a haunted house. Explain how each effect contributes to the mood.

Answer: Possible answers include: (1) Creaking door sounds to evoke mystery or fear, (2) Wind howling to suggest an eerie outdoor environment, (3) Distant thunder to build tension and anticipation. Each sound enhances the spooky atmosphere and immerses the audience.

Question 2: Explain the importance of timing when using sound effects during a live performance. How can poor timing affect the audience's experience?

Answer: Timing is crucial because it ensures sound effects align with on-stage actions, enhancing realism and emotional impact. Poor timing can confuse the audience, break suspension of disbelief, or diminish key moments' effectiveness.

Question 3: List three ways a sound designer might create a sense of space or location through sound in a play.

Answer: Using background sounds specific to the setting (e.g., city noise for an urban scene), adjusting volume and reverberation to suggest indoor or outdoor environments, and layering sounds to add depth and dimension.

Question 4: Draw a simple diagram of a basic sound setup used in theatre production, including at least a microphone, sound mixer, and speakers. Label each component clearly.

Answer: A diagram showing a microphone connected via a cable to a sound mixer, which is connected to a set of speakers. Labels should identify each part and indicate the flow of the sound signal.

Question 5: Imagine you are designing a soundscape for a scene set in a bustling marketplace. Describe the types of sounds you would include and how they would be layered to create a lively atmosphere.

Answer: Sounds might include street vendors shouting, footsteps, distant chatter, animals, and carts. These would be layered with varying volumes and spatial placement to evoke a busy, vibrant marketplace environment.

Question 6: What are some practical considerations when using sound equipment during a live performance to ensure sound quality and safety?

Answer: Ensuring equipment is tested beforehand, managing volume levels to prevent feedback or discomfort, securing cables to avoid tripping hazards, and having a technician available for troubleshooting.

Question 7: Sketch a simple plan of how sound might be positioned on stage and backstage to maximize effect and minimize disruption. Include at least three key placement points.

Answer: A plan showing speakers positioned at stage sides and rear to surround the audience, microphones placed backstage or on-stage for actors, with labels indicating their intended purpose. The sketch should show clear spatial relationships.

Question 8: Evaluate the impact of using pre-recorded sound effects versus live sound effects in a theatrical performance. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Answer: Pre-recorded effects are reliable, consistent, and easy to reproduce, but may lack spontaneity. Live effects can be more dynamic and immersive but require more equipment and skill, and may be less predictable.

Question 9: Describe how a change in sound volume can influence the audience's perception of a scene. Provide an example scenario.

Answer: Increasing volume can heighten tension or excitement, such as raising the sound of approaching footsteps to signal danger. Decreasing volume can create intimacy or calm, like lowering background noise during a quiet conversation.