Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Essay Example

the gauze, at the same time as Maria's spirit was lifted to the heavens! As a result, the audience reacted with an outbreak of laughter. Though the scene seemed somewhat exaggerated, it successfully impressed and entertained the audience for act one. The play also utilized stylized lighting, akin to that of a pantomime, with striking contrasts of gaudy colours such as orange and green, prominently used in Corder's scenes, played by Niall McGregor.

The use of lighting was a prominent feature in the production, with various effects used to create atmosphere within each scene. Night-time scenes were distinguished by inky blue hues and a twinkling star cloth positioned behind gauzes. In Pharos Lee's initial appearance alongside other North American Indians, a crackling fire was featured prominently. Additionally, the Gypsy characters were seen holding torches fashioned from simple bulbs and "flaming" fabric, adding to the overall set design.

Scenery in woodland scenes with Tim was created using gobos, such as trees in various shades of green as backdrops. These gobos added texture to both the scenery and the actors' faces that walked through the light. The lighting direction was an important feature used specifically in Corder's scenes.

Footlights were not used frequently and were mostly utilized for personal reasons, which may have been insufficient. Whereas, filters were employed on the stage to impart distinct characters to the performers as they moved, adding to the stylized rendition. Additionally, two lamps situated above the doors at both ends of the proscenium arch were utilized to evoke Victorian street lamps. The lighting demonstrated an enhanced fusion with the set and the production's other aspects, forming an elegant ensemble. The melodramatic genre

of the show was complemented by its sound design.

The play utilized themes to represent each stereotypical character, either to introduce a new character to the audience or to emphasize a monologue. For live sound effects, a sheet of metal was flown in and rattled by an actor stage right to create thunderclaps. Additionally, a wooden box filled with dried peas produced the sound of pattering rain, with the intensity of the rain increasing as the box was shaken more vigorously. The play also featured a wind machine, using an old fan from backstage to create a continuous whistling sound in the wings. To amplify their voices over dramatic sound effects, the main characters wore microphone headpieces.

In addition, Zella utilized panning effects and delay to imbue an eerie atmosphere from her balcony, with her haunting voice sending chills down Corder's spine. The accompaniment music, including the gospel style featured in Jennifer Biddal's portrayal of Maria's death, elevated the action on stage, while sound effects added to the overall performance and characterization. From the peaceful countryside bird songs to the bustling noise of a Victorian townhouse market trade, various effects enhanced the atmosphere. All musical themes were pre-recorded for consistency.

The avian ambiance in the play lacked realism, but the bustling urban setting was convincing and enhanced the scene's impact. The costumes in the production were magnificent, mostly consisting of authentic Victorian attire. However, there were some unique exceptions. For instance, Lucy sported a stunning black gown adorned with eye-catching gold applique. The dress was constructed from lavish material and exuded opulence. The rural characters were clothed in traditional workwear, but it was a tad too

immaculate for their social standing.

Despite some discrepancies, the costumes created an appropriate period setting, especially with the addition of gaiters worn by everyone. The outfits of Ishmael and Zella were notably elaborate and incorporated their Jewish background through their display of personal wealth in the form of jewels and gold. Zella accessorized with heavy gold bracelets and charms, while Ishmael opted for numerous earrings. The portrayal of North American Indians was somewhat unrealistic and not entirely cohesive with the rest of the play, though it did bring some comedic relief. In a mourning scene, time constraints meant that the women wore black shawls and the men wore black jackets to signify the entire town's grief following Maria's death. Black crepe was also placed on the door for added emphasis.

The sequence depicting Maria's death stood out to me in the play due to its comical nature. Christopher Denys, the director, cleverly incorporated every opportunity for humor within the scene. Maria enters the stage in full makeup, and Corder, who had previously mimed digging a grave USR, forcefully seizes her arm and guides her towards the grave located USC, which is depicted by a hole created through a trapdoor. Corder harshly reminds Maria to prepare for her demise, triggering her shock and subsequent fight for survival. Their struggle is portrayed in slow motion, reminiscent of a silent film, until Maria dramatically falls backwards into the open grave and meets her doom.

During the chaotic scene, Corder shoots Maria with a pistol he pulled from his pocket. The lighting changes, and Zella and Ishmael's spirits appear behind a gauze while two 'angel' figures in white with gold

tinsel halos sing from the balconies. Clouds are flown in and Maria reappears as a cardboard cut-out dressed like the angels, complete with a photograph of her face. The scene creates a crescendo of events that culminate with the dropping of the curtains. I appreciate this modern performance done in Melodrama style for both its humor and success.

A standout scene from the play was the London rooftop scene, featuring comical miniature puppets of characters Hawkshaw (Ian Bonar), Pharos Lee (Steven Miller), and William Corder in a moonlit skyline silhouette. The use of only streetlamp lights in the small set was highly effective and had the audience enthrallingly following the action. Careful scene transitioning added to the overall impressive and entertaining effect of the play, which was magnificently directed. The songs were a highlight of the performance, elevating it to a proper Victorian Melodrama.

Seeing it was delightful.