Question 1: Explain the purpose of stage lighting in a theatrical performance.

Answer: Stage lighting helps to focus the audience's attention, create mood and atmosphere, and enhance the visual storytelling of the performance.

Question 2: Describe three different types of lighting used in theatre productions and their functions.

Answer: Spotlights highlight specific actors or areas; floodlights provide general illumination; and coloured gels are used to change the mood or setting by adding colour to the light.

Question 3: Imagine you are designing lighting for a scene set in a mysterious forest at night. List three lighting techniques or effects you would use and explain why.

Answer: I would use dim blue lighting to create a nighttime atmosphere, directed beams with gobos to mimic moonlight filtering through trees, and subtle flickering effects to suggest movement or mystery.

Question 4: Draw a rough sketch of a basic stage lighting setup for a small scene. Label the positions of the main light sources.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a stage with at least two lights: one positioned at the front (floodlight or spotlight) directed at the actors, and another at the side or above for side or back lighting. Labels should include 'front light', 'side/back light', and arrows indicating the light direction.

Question 5: What is the purpose of using coloured gels in stage lighting? Provide two reasons.

Answer: Coloured gels are used to create different moods or atmospheres, and to visually distinguish different settings or times of day.

Question 6: Identify and describe the role of a 'follow spot' in stage lighting.

Answer: A follow spot is a powerful spotlight that can be manually directed to follow an actor as they move around the stage, highlighting them during their performance.

Question 7: Explain how lighting can be used to indicate a change in time or place during a scene.

Answer: Lighting can change in colour, intensity, or direction to suggest different times of day, weather conditions, or locations. For example, warm orange light can suggest sunrise, while cool blue light indicates night.

Question 8: Sketch a simple lighting plan for a scene set in a sunny outdoor park. Include at least two different light sources or effects in your sketch.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a bright, yellowish light source from above or front to simulate sunlight, and possibly some softer fill lights or shading to add depth and realism.

Question 9: List three safety precautions that should be taken when setting up stage lighting equipment.

Answer: Ensuring all electrical connections are secure and insulated, keeping lighting equipment away from flammable materials, and making sure all lights are securely mounted to prevent falling.

Question 10: Reflect on how lighting can influence the emotional tone of a scene. Provide an example.

Answer: Lighting influences mood; for example, dim, blue lighting can create a somber or mysterious tone, while bright, warm lighting can convey happiness or warmth.