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The Influences of Theatrical Sets on Acoustics

Zachery L’Italien
McKay Conant Hoover, Inc.
zlitalien@mchinc.com

ABSTRACT:
Successful and cohesive theatercraft must engage and accommodate the needs of multiple disciplines, not the least of which is carefully considered set design. The way that sound interacts with a set influences the life of the performance. This paper is an exploratory article aimed at encouraging the design team to consider how best to avoid often-repeated acoustical mis-steps and optimize set design elements to help ensure acoustical success for every production, especially in acoustic (unamplified) environments. The author will draw on his recollection of various performances, and commenting on the experiences of others regarding set shaping, reverberation, and performer blocking.

FULL PAPER:
The Influences of Theatrical Sets on Acoustics
Publication: USITT Current Practices and Research in Sound
March 21, 2019