The evolution of set design is intertwined with the development of theatre, film, and other forms of visual storytelling. Set design has evolved through the years in a number of ways since its earliest days in the 15th century B.C. Set designs have moved from natural outdoor lightings such as sun and moonlight to indoor artificial structures where the weather cannot be a determinant of theatre and performances.
The evolvement of set design through the years has had a significant impact on the performances in the theatre. Notably, technology has played a big role in the advancement of set design. It has shaped the type of theatre available and even the mode of watching them. From the days of Magic Lantern, which was developed in 1603 for animation, to 3D animation in recent years, technology has improved set design tremendously.
Here’s an overview of the history of set designs:
Ancient and Medieval Periods
In ancient Greece, theatrical productions were set in outdoor amphitheaters, and several devices were used to move or change scenes. The Eccylema was a wheeled platform that was usually rolled out from the stage building (Skene) through large doors (Paraskenia). It was used for the purpose of revealing scenes that took place inside the stage building, especially important scenes. It allowed the audience to witness the aftermath of these events. The Skene was in the form of a building located behind the stage. It was used as a backdrop for the actors and provided a space for them to change costumes. The Skene was mostly decorated with painted panels and architectural elements that represented the setting of the play. It also has multiple levels, allowing for actors to enter and exit from different points.
Periaktoi was three-sided rotating prisms or columns. Each face of the Periaktos was painted with different scenery or backdrops, enabling quick scene changes. By rotating the Periaktoi, various scenes could be shown to the audience, giving them a visual representation of various locations within the play. The Machina, was a machine that allowed actors, often portraying gods or divine beings, to be lowered onto the stage or lifted into the air. It was an early type of stage machinery and, of course, special effects. Pinakes were painted panels that were attached to the Skene or placed in front of it, revealing various scenes or locations relevant to the play. Pinakes were often used together with the periaktoi and other set elements to create a visual backdrop for the actors and improve the atmosphere of the performance.
The Roman set designs attempted to improve the Greek design, but some of their theatres were simple modifications away from the Greek theatres. The most important development in the Roman theatres was the integration of the three separate parts of the Greek theatre, that is, the orchestra, auditorium, and Skene, into one structure.
One interesting result of the medieval theatre was the significant development in the number of special effects such as Hellsmouth. Theatrical performances took place in churches and town squares.
Rennaisance and Baroque Periods
The Italian Renaissance Scenery is a product of the Italian Renaissance, and it is based on the discovery of the rules of perspective and their application to architecture. The evolution of the theatrical scenery during this period was a result of the work of some artists over a period of 250 years. In 1415, the secret of linear perspective, a system used for creating the illusion of space and distance on a flat surface, was discovered by Filippo Brunelleschi. In 1435, the first treatise on geometric principles of linear perspective was published by Leon Battista Alberti. In 1545, Architetura, the first detailed work on the design of a court theatre, was published by Sebastiano Serlio. Set design saw significant development during the Renaissance, especially in theatre signs. During this period, there was considerable interest in classical models, which included elements of Greek and Roman theatrical practice.
Set design became more prominent during the Baroque period. They used bold backdrops, beautiful architectural facades, and sophisticated mechanics to create striking and visually stunning scenes. The French court under Louis XIV was often famous for its stunning designs by famous artists and architects.
19th and 20th Century
During the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution added approximately improvements in technology and stagecraft. Gas lighting fixtures were introduced, enabling more revolutionary lighting effects. The use of realistic scenery and three-dimensional sets became popular, bringing approximately a greater immersion in set designs and theatrical productions. The three major scenic trends in set designs during the 19th century were the historically accurate scenery, the box set development, and a revolt against the two-dimensional world of painted canvas.
The trend towards historically accurate scenery began in Germany around 1810 and can be accredited to Josef Schreyvogel, the director of Vienna’s Brugtheater. Introducing the box set to the English stage was the work of Actor-Manager Mme. Vestris.
Towards the end of the 19th century, two designers, Adolph Appia, and Edward Gordon Craig, revolted against the scenic practices of the traditional European acting company. They proposed a three-dimensional actor standing on a flat floor surrounded by acres of “realistically” painted canvas. Their controversial ideas later on, became the basis of the New Stagecraft.
In the 20th century, set design accelerated its scope with the development of cinema. Film sets became more elaborate; the use of the combination of practical sets, miniatures, matte paintings, and visual results created mesmeric environments. The emergence of avant-garde theater and experimental productions further pushed the boundaries of set design, with artists like Adolphe Appia and Edward Gordon Craig advocating for extra abstract and symbolic set designs. Set designs have been greatly stimulated by artistic movements inclusive of expressionism and surrealism. Technological advancements in stagecraft and production strategies, in addition, increased the possibilities of set design. The introduction of new materials, which include lightweight metals and plastics, allowed for extra versatile and ingenious set constructions. In the 20th century, set design became a more collaborative technique, regarding close coordination among set designers, directors, lighting designers, costume designers, and other creative specialists.
Contemporary Set Design
Today, set design embraces numerous variety of styles and strategies. From meticulously crafted and historically correct sets to minimalistic and idea-driven designs, every method serves its motive to enhance the storytelling process. Set design is an important instrument in developing the mood, environment, and visible narrative of a theatrical production. The design takes the audience in and connects them with the characters and events unfolding before them. As an architecture, set design combines artistic vision, and technical expertise with a thorough understanding of space and aesthetics to create a spectacular setting that serves as a stage for memorable performances.
References
Encyclopedia Britannica (2003). Stage Design. [Online]. Available at: www.Britannica.com/eb/article?eu=118829
Larry Wild. (2002). A Brief History of Scene Design. Nothern South University.
