Research
We started the semester by spending time researching some of the existing virtual theatre in the world, and a discussion about some of the things that we are drawn to about virtual theatre as well as some things that we would like to avoid.
Some Virtual Theatre we Were Inspired By:
Zoom Theatre is a company that produces shows specifically for the Zoom platform. All of their shows are free to watch live.
24-Hour Plays is a company that produces new monologues that are written, rehearsed, and recorded in isolation within 24 hours.
The Neo-Futurists is an experimental theatre company in Chicago. They release a show weekly at a low cost. The Chicago Tribune claims: “The Neo-Futurists have created the most successful online shows of the pandemic”
Some Tips and Tricks we Found from Other Virtual Theatre Creators:
A video compilation of creative ways to perform stunts and stage combat virtually. We were drawn to their use of movement and camera angles.
https://learn.schooltheatre.org/creating-virtual-performances
This is a whole database of helpful information on creating virtual content. It includes a video example, written tips, relevant terms and definitions, example scenarios, and even links to other relevant resources.
An article that gives tips for ‘setting the stage’ for virtual plays. The article is geared towards directors but has useful tips for everybody.
A video tutorial that includes a guide for using virtual tech elements like greenscreens and camera set-up.
Our Take-Aways:
- Some performances and some are live. Both have technical challenges. The recorded performances, although smoother, feel like they want to be compared to a film instead of a live experience, and can be found lacking.
- Although unconventional, there are many creative opportunities for camera use that Zoom can offer to a live performance (pre-recordings, visual elements, camera angles, etc.), but we should avoid trying to avoid things that feel TOO cinematic.
- Green Screens seem very controversial. Some people can be really turned off by them. Others are interested in their potential.
- Blocking for scenes will need to take in the distance between the actor and the camera as that will affect the scene's intimacy.
- Film and TV and tend to just show us things. Theater tends to engage our imagination. How can we make it more theatrical by not showing things? Maybe only showing a person’s hands while they speak.
- Objects and Behaviors that would be boring in a film, become more engaging in Zoom like they would on stage. Imagine cutting an onion. Washing Dishes. Etc.
- Don’t ignore that you are on Zoom. Don’t try to do a show like you normally would.