It is easy to believe that the actors are the most important part of a theatrical performance. And while it is true that there wouldn’t be much of a show without them, there are other aspects of the experience that simply cannot be ignored. For instance, the set design.
Think about it— If you want to properly tell a story, you must set the scene. In theatre, this is all about designing the set.

It may enhance the overall performance, but that is not all it does. Let’s take a closer look at the importance of set design in theatre.

The Value of Set Design in Theatre

Sure, the set is the backdrop to the play or performance, but it is not to be hidden in the background. After all, it is often the first thing the audience sees before any action ever takes place.

A well-designed set can enhance the production as it supports the characters on stage. It is there to help the audience envision what is taking place and understand the time and place of the production. Add lighting and sound and it brings everything together.

Without a set design, much would be left to the imagination — and this can result in the audience missing important parts of the production. The whole picture cannot always be conveyed using words.

What Does a Good Set Design Look Like?

Set designs can look vastly different from one to the next, depending on what it is being created for. For instance, the set for a dance performance is likely going to look different than a play. And the design for a play set in the 1800s will look much different than one set in the modern day.

This is all done to scale so that the perfect effects are achieved. You know it's good when the audience cannot only see it, but the creative set inspires emotions alongside the performance.

So, what does a good set look like?

It Conveys the Setting and Period

For the audience to connect with the action on stage and the storyline, they need to know some essential details, such as when and where it is taking place. A good set design will give them everything they need to know.

A performance that takes place during a certain time in history should have a set that represents that, making the timeline very clear to the audience.

Where the characters are at any given moment is also essential. Are they in an office? On a city street? In a living room? A good set design will give the audience all the answers they need by glancing at the stage.

Communicate any Themes or Symbols

A good set design can guide emotions and underlying tones for an onstage performance. This is done in several different ways based on the creativity of the set design crew.

The use of certain colors, shapes, and textures can symbolize different things and evoke certain moods. For example, reds can reflect emotions of passion or anger and geometrical shapes can symbolize intricate or complex relations.

What’s more, the way the set is laid out with furniture and props may signal a power struggle, broken relationship, love, unity, rebellion, or the like.

Creative set designs thrive in their ability to relay these messages without speaking a word.

Make Smooth Transitions

Good sets will always have smooth transitions. Throughout the performance, the location or dynamics are sure to change. When they do, the set will need to change, too.

This is often done in the background without distracting from what is taking place on stage or during intermission while the curtain is closed. This should be practiced so that changes to the set can be made with ease and without disruption.

Come See Our Set Design at Forestburgh Playhouse

At Forestburgh Playhouse, we know the importance set design holds in providing the audience with the best performance imaginable. Get your tickets today and come see for yourself.

Stay tuned to find out about our Summer season lineup!

The Importance of Set Design in Theatre