Question 1: Describe the key elements you should consider when designing a set for a dramatic scene set in a forest. Include at least three aspects and explain their importance.

Answer: Key elements include scenery (trees, foliage) to establish the setting visually; lighting choices to create mood and time of day; and props such as rocks or logs to enhance realism and interaction. These elements help immerse the audience and support the narrative.

Question 2: Explain the purpose of using levels (e.g., platforms, steps) in set design. Provide two reasons why levels are effective in staging a scene.

Answer: Levels add visual interest and help define different spaces or characters' statuses. They also create dynamic compositions, guiding the audience’s focus and allowing for varied blocking.

Question 3: List three materials commonly used in constructing theatre sets and discuss one advantage of each material.

Answer: Plywood: lightweight and easy to cut, making it versatile for building structures. Foam boards: lightweight and can be painted to look like different textures or surfaces. Steel or metal: durable and strong, suitable for support structures or fixtures.

Question 4: Sketch a simple stage layout that includes a central acting area, a backdrop, and two side entrances. Use arrows to indicate the direction of actor movement between areas.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a rectangular stage with a marked central acting space, a backdrop at the rear, and entrances/exits on the left and right sides. Arrows should indicate actors moving in and out through these entrances, and the layout should be clear and proportionate.

Question 5: Identify and describe two different types of stage configurations used in theatres, explaining how each influences set design and actor movement.

Answer: Proscenium stage: a traditional stage with a framed front, allowing for elaborate set design that extends into the audience space; actors perform primarily in front of the audience. Thrust stage: extends into the audience on three sides, requiring more integrated set design that considers visibility and accessibility from all angles.

Question 6: Discuss the importance of sightlines in set design. How does good planning of sightlines improve audience experience?

Answer: Good sightlines ensure that all audience members can see the action clearly without obstruction. Proper planning prevents set pieces from blocking views and helps maintain engagement and understanding of the performance.

Question 7: Describe how lighting can be used in conjunction with set design to create different atmospheres or moods during a play.

Answer: Lighting can highlight specific areas of the set, create shadows for suspense, or change colour to reflect mood (e.g., warm tones for comfort, blue for sadness). Combining lighting with set elements enhances the overall atmosphere and emotional impact.

Question 8: Design a simple set for a scene set in a kitchen. Sketch the basic elements you would include and label them clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would feature essential kitchen items such as a stove, sink, countertop, and cabinets. The set should include a clear floor plan with these elements arranged logically, and labels indicating each feature.

Question 9: Explain the concept of 'blocking' in relation to set design and staging. Why is it important for actors and set pieces?

Answer: Blocking is the precise movement and positioning of actors on stage. It is important because it ensures actors interact effectively with the set, maintains visual interest, and supports the storytelling by guiding audience focus.

Question 10: Reflect on how the choice of set colours can influence the mood of a scene. Provide an example of a colour and the mood it might evoke.

Answer: Colours can evoke specific emotions; for example, red can create a sense of urgency or passion, while blue can evoke calmness or sadness. The set’s colour palette helps reinforce the scene’s emotional tone.