On Wednesday, Monmouth College Professor of theater arts Doug Rankin spoke at the Wells Theater about the influence of technology on theater productions in the past 20 years. The talk was sponsored by the Buchanan Center for the Arts.
"Scenic design has turned from a hand made, hand built, hand operated procedure into a totally different computer operation," he said.
Rankin, who first began experimenting with computers in 1981, also showed examples of how he has used technology in productions, including the college's upcoming performance of "Sweeney Todd."
"Years ago, I would have had to draw the entire set out, but programs like Vectorworks have made the process much easier," Rankin said.
The Vectorworks program can section off the stage, project lighting to create shadows and ultimately show exactly what the audience will see. The program also allows Rankin to create backdrops composed of brick by importing a picture of a brick wall. Rankin also uses Adobe Photoshop in addition to Vectorworks to create different stage elements, something that has been helpful in producing the scenery for "Sweeney Todd."
"Sweeney Todd is
primarily a steel show, which is a very different
process than usual," he said.
Rankin showed the audience different set pieces that he
has designed for the musical, including a barber chair
on top of a platform that allows the cast member to fall
into a trap door, all primarily made out of steel.
"This production is quite possibly our most ambitious show ever, and we've probably gone over budget, but buying a lot of steel has helped us out," Rankin said.
By using programs like Vectorworks, Rankin has been able to work on other aspects of the show.
"Computers have allowed me to work with students more, and do a lot more building in the shop and that is where the fun is," Rankin said.
"Sweeney Todd," will be presented at Monmouth College starting on Thursday April 15 until Sunday, April 18.
Also, for more information on upcoming events presented by Buchanan Center for the Arts, visit www.bcaarts.org.
