Colour’s Role in the Live Theatre Experience: An Examination of How and Why Colour Can Affect Audience Members

Allison S Bell

This thesis explores the role of colour in shaping the visual storytelling and communication integral to the live theatre experience. I examine the use of colour and explore the 'why' and 'how' behind colour’s influence on theatre audiences. Understanding the connections between colour and the audience's perceptual processes empowers designers to make more deliberate choices to convey a production's meaning and messages effectively. The research is divided into three main foci. Firstly, I discuss 'physiological-led responses,' which delves into visual perception, physiological responses, cognitive understanding, and the impact of factors such as biological sex, age, and visual diversity. Secondly, I explain 'psychological/emotional-led responses,' which includes psychology, colour preferences, harmonic or discordant perceptions of colour, emotional connections, and the development of colour understanding. Thirdly, I examine 'identity-led responses,' including the cultural, social, historical, and religious contexts that influence colour symbolism. This three-focus approach underscores how individualized contexts lead to subjective colour comprehension, while also acknowledging universally accepted symbolic meanings that designers may decide to employ. This research combines both traditional research-based and practice-led methodologies. Drawing from a range of theoretical concepts, I aim to enrich discussions within creative teams and enhance overall performance cohesion in the live theatre context. Through textual analysis of my scenic designs, I discuss the application of theory, creative processes, and the intended impact of specific colour choices on audience members. The textual analysis productions encompass children's theatre, Shakespearean plays, and contemporary productions, reflecting diverse intentions and audience demographics. Ultimately, this thesis aims to guide current and aspiring scenic designers, as well as those interested in understanding the fundamentals of colour application in a theatre context. The thesis delves into the 'why' behind colour choices and offers practical, theory-driven insights to facilitate the creation of designs that can effectively evoke desired audience responses.

Colour’s Role in the Live Theatre Experience: An Examination of How and Why Colour Can Affect Audience Members

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