🎭Elements of Theatrical Design Unit 7 – Sound Design

What's Sound Design?

• Sound design involves creating the auditory world of a theatrical production
• Encompasses all audible elements in a show including sound effects, music, and reinforced dialogue
• Sound designers collaborate with the director and creative team to develop a cohesive sonic vision
• Aims to enhance the emotional impact of the story and support the overall artistic direction
• Sound design can establish setting, time period, and atmosphere (realistic city sounds for a modern urban play)
• Effective sound design remains subtle and integrates seamlessly into the production
• Requires a combination of technical skills, artistic creativity, and storytelling sensibility

Key Concepts in Sound Design

• Diegetic sound originates from within the world of the play and can be heard by the characters (phone ringing on stage)
• Non-diegetic sound comes from outside the story world and is only heard by the audience (underscoring music)
• Soundscape refers to the overall sonic environment created through layering various sounds
• Leitmotifs are recurring musical themes associated with specific characters, events, or emotions
• Frequency refers to the pitch of a sound, measured in Hertz (Hz)
  • Low frequencies produce bass tones while high frequencies create treble tones
• Amplitude is the loudness or volume of a sound, measured in decibels (dB)
• Panning determines the spatial placement of a sound in the stereo field (left, right, or center)
• Fades involve gradually increasing (fade in) or decreasing (fade out) the volume of a sound

Tools of the Trade

• Digital audio workstations (DAWs) are software used for recording, editing, and mixing sound (Pro Tools, Logic Pro)
• Microphones capture acoustic sound sources and convert them into electrical signals
  • Dynamic microphones are durable and ideal for capturing loud sources like drums or amplifiers
  • Condenser microphones are sensitive and excel at recording detailed sounds like vocals or acoustic instruments
• Mixing consoles allow the sound designer to control and blend multiple audio signals
• Speakers and sound systems reproduce the audio and project it to the audience
• Sound effect libraries provide pre-recorded sounds that can be used in the design
• MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows electronic instruments and computers to communicate
• Samplers can record and manipulate audio snippets to create unique sound effects
• Equalizers (EQ) adjust the balance of frequency ranges within an audio signal

Creating a Sound Plot

• A sound plot is a detailed document that outlines all the sound cues in a production
• Begins by analyzing the script and identifying key moments that require sound support
• Collaborates with the director to determine the desired emotional impact and stylistic approach
• Develops a cue list that specifies the timing, duration, and description of each sound event
• Assigns a unique number to each cue for easy reference during rehearsals and performances
• Indicates the source of each sound cue (live, recorded, or a combination)
• Specifies the playback method for recorded cues (computer, CD, or other media)
• Includes any special instructions or notes for the sound operator

Sound Effects and Music Selection

• Sound effects can be realistic (door slam, gunshot) or abstract (eerie drone, magical shimmer)
• Sourcing sound effects involves recording original sounds, using pre-recorded libraries, or a combination
• Music selection sets the tone and emotional atmosphere of scenes
  • Can be original compositions, pre-existing recordings, or live performances
• Consider the genre, style, and time period of the play when choosing music
• Ensure that sound effects and music complement each other without competing for attention
• Obtain necessary permissions and licenses for copyrighted material
• Organize and label sound files clearly for efficient retrieval during playback

Mixing and Balancing Audio

• Mixing involves blending and adjusting various audio elements to create a cohesive soundscape
• Balance the levels of dialogue, sound effects, and music to ensure clarity and impact
• Use panning to create spatial depth and directionality (footsteps moving from left to right)
• Apply equalization (EQ) to shape the tonal character of sounds and improve intelligibility
• Utilize compression to control dynamic range and prevent overloading
• Add reverb or delay effects to simulate acoustic spaces or create special effects
• Create smooth transitions between cues using fades and crossfades
• Monitor the mix on different speaker systems to ensure translation across various setups

Tech Rehearsals and Troubleshooting

• Tech rehearsals integrate all technical elements, including sound, into the performance
• Set up and configure the sound system in the performance space
• Program the sound cues into the playback software or mixing console
• Attend technical rehearsals to refine cue timings, levels, and speaker placements
• Collaborate with the sound operator to ensure smooth execution of cues
• Troubleshoot any technical issues that arise during rehearsals (feedback, signal dropouts)
• Make necessary adjustments based on feedback from the director and creative team
• Document any changes or updates to the sound plot and cue list
• Train the sound operator on the proper execution of the sound design

Sound Design in Different Theatre Styles

• Realism aims for authentic and naturalistic sound that mimics everyday life
• Non-realism allows for more abstract and stylized sound design choices
• Musical theatre often incorporates live orchestras or bands, requiring careful balance with vocals
• Immersive theatre surrounds the audience with sound to create a multi-sensory experience
• Site-specific productions adapt the sound design to the unique acoustics of the performance location
• Experimental theatre pushes the boundaries of traditional sound design conventions
• Devised theatre may incorporate sound as an integral part of the collaborative creation process
• Sound design for classical plays (Shakespeare) may involve period-specific music and effects