How can new digital technology support sustainable stage set production?
I have identified model building and mock-ups as focal points, as new technologies such as VR and AR find a suitable application, particularly in space planning. They allow for the visualization of project ideas in actual size, enabling movement within the space, direct adjustments to the stage set, and evaluation of the impact of individual elements without the need for large physical models. I am exploring the potential of virtual spatial extensions for stage set planning and will also delve into existing projects that have developed concepts in this area.
Virtual modeling for stage sets offers diverse potential and brings numerous advantages:
- Efficient Conceptualization: Digital modeling enables precise and efficient conceptualization of stage sets. Creative ideas can be visualized and adjusted quickly.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Virtual models promote improved collaboration across the entire production team. All stakeholders, from the set designer to the director and lighting designers, can work on the same digital model in real-time and provide feedback.
- Resource Efficiency: Avoiding physical models significantly reduces material consumption, contributing not only to cost savings but also to environmental friendliness.
- Sustainability: Digital models allow for a more sustainable approach. By avoiding physical materials and using eco-friendly software solutions, the ecological footprint can be minimized.
- Flexibility and Adaptation: Digital models are easily adaptable, providing flexibility for changes during the design process, crucial in an industry often characterized by spontaneous ideas and creative adjustments.
- Simulation of Light and Effects: Virtual modeling allows the simulation of lighting conditions and effects, aiding in understanding and optimizing the visual impact of the stage set under different conditions.
- Archiving and Reuse: Digital models can be archived and reused for future productions, saving time and resources for upcoming projects.
Overall, virtual modeling for stage sets offers a contemporary and innovative approach that not only optimizes workflow but also provides ecological and economic benefits.
3D-Programs for stage design
Complex programs like Autodesk’s AutoCAD enable the design and visualization of ideas for a stage production, supporting the process from design through modeling and prototype creation to production. Both 2D and 3D renderings can be designed for better concept communication. However, as AutoCAD focuses heavily on technical aspects and offers numerous features, it may not be suitable for quickly creating stage set concepts. A program with the potential to unite all elements of a stage set (construction, materials, lighting) and make them easily adjustable would be beneficial.
Im/material Theater Spaces
A subproject of the research project „Im/material Theater Spaces“ focused on developing methods and tools for virtual construction rehearsals that can take place in the virtual space and are location-independent.
During the construction rehearsal, the artistic and technical teams come together for the first time in a large group. Here, the previously submitted stage set design model is marked on the stage to visualize ideas and dimensions in a 1:1 scale. Through discussions, the technical feasibility is examined. It is crucial that during the rehearsal, the overall impression, dimension, and atmosphere of the stage set can be experienced for the first time, providing insight into the impact the stage set has on the audience. Additionally, depending on the stage set, the materiality and the use of light and projections are tested for the first time. The approach of the construction rehearsal can also be compared to Greyboxing in gaming, where relevant parts are prototypically simulated. Wouldn’t it be practical to incorporate this aspect directly at the beginning of the design and conceptualization process and use its effect as a design and idea driver?
The result of the project includes methods and tools for conducting virtual construction rehearsals. A workshop format called „How to go Virtual“ was developed to test practical applications with theaters and venues on-site. The focus was on practical application, experimenting with existing applications and programs, and playing through individual usage scenarios.
Results of the project: Virtual Construction Rehearsals: The project developed workflows and methods that serve as guides and tutorials for the theatrical landscape. Three different workflows were developed:
Sketchfab / Zoom „Semi-virtual Preliminary Rehearsal“
_Utilizes the Sketchfab platform for model presentation.
_Enables discussions via video conferences and shared screens.
_No live editing of the 3D model during the discussion.
Mozilla Hubs „Rehearsal for Everyone“
_Uses the Mozilla Hubs platform for virtual rehearsals.
_Easy accessibility for up to 30 people.
_No live editing of the 3D model during the discussion.
Virtual Construction Rehearsal with VR-Sketch
_Utilizes the paid plugin VR-Sketch for SketchUp.
_Enables discussions and construction rehearsals via VR headsets.
_Live editing of the virtual 3D model during the discussion.
Thinking further, a virtual construction rehearsal could not only include the stage set itself but also integrate costume design, with 3D elements related to the stage set. I came across the research project „connecting.stitches“ by Luside Ehrenwerth, where she combines costume design and technologies. Her focus is on the possibility of experimenting with conductive fabrics, 3D printing, and sensors before transferring them into production. This free experimentation could be directly incorporated into the design of an entire scene in VR to examine the overall concept more precisely. This way, all products from different workshops could be coordinated to be viewed in exact scale.
Finally, it’s worth noting that real materials, paper, and pencils are often used for sketching ideas and concepts. Could it be a possible approach to take these 2D representations as they are and transport them directly into the virtual 3D space to make quick decisions for the progressing design process?
Institutions
Deutsche Theater Gesellschaft – Services
Ressources
