Live Theatre Production: theatrical conventions of the period

Understanding Theatrical Conventions of the Period

The theatrical conventions of a period refer to the accepted norms or practices of theatrical productions during that time.
These conventions can involve aspects such as stage design, acting style, genre of the play, costuming, make-up, lighting, and use of music and sound.
Theatrical conventions are used to create a particular style or atmosphere in a production, and they can deeply influence the audience’s understanding and interpretation of the play.

Investigating the theatrical conventions of the period in which a play was written or set can give invaluable insights for a production. Research may include studying historical records, scripts, visual materials like sketches or photographs, and even critical reviews from that period.
It’s essential to note that these conventions are not rigid rules but rather provide a framework which can be adhered to, adapted or even intentionally broken for creative effect.

Stage design can be heavily influenced by the conventions of the period. For example, a proscenium arch stage was prevalent in Victorian theatre, while theatre of the Absurd often made use of a minimalist set design.
The configuration of the stage and audience, whether theatre in the round, proscenium, thrust, or traverse, can also reflect period conventions.

The acting style prevalent during a period can affect the portrayal of character, emotion and story. For instance, Naturalism heralded a move towards realism in performance, while in Ancient Greek theatre, stylised movement and mask-work were key conventions.
The role of the director can also vary with period. In some periods, such as Shakespearian theatre, the role of a director as we understand it today didn’t exist.

Different periods have distinct ways of using elements like lighting, sound, and make-up. For example, the use of footlights was common in Restoration theatre, while contemporary productions often employ sophisticated lighting and sound technology.
The use of verse or prose, soliloquies, asides, symbolism, and breaking the fourth wall are all examples of textual and performance conventions prevalent in different periods.

Once the theatrical conventions of a period are understood, they can be consciously applied, adapted or challenged in a production. The choice should serve to support the director’s vision and enhance the audience’s understanding of the play.
A thoughtful appropriation of period conventions can provide a link to the past, respect the original text and context, and enable creative innovations.