Visual research

Personal reaction to past productions of Electra 

Electra, directed by Peter Stein

What initially struck me about this set design was the incorporation of the round on the centre of the stage. It pays homage to the Greek tradition of ampi-style theatre, famously performed in the round,  and also creates a unique, diverse space. Pictured is Electra performing her opening monologue, an intricate scene where the chorus lament Electra around her struggling emotions. The way in which the set design elevates Electra's vulnerability, in my opinion, is extremely well designed.  The sheer emptiness of the space with the chorus aligning the edges of the round makes Electra appear isolated and alone. In regards to my design, this is also a theme I want to emulate. The monochrome, bleak aesthetic pictures is also extremely interesting, it compliments the white lighting and allows the space to look extremely heightened.

                                                         Electra, designed by Ming Cho Lee

The imagery and symbolism of the palace being held  here by elevation is extremely fascinating to me. The ways in which the palace affects the characters is something which I wish to consider for my design. It is portrayed, in my interpretation, as something which is oppressing the family; but it is also a foundation, it holds together the secrets, lie and deception. Seeing the palace as a physical manifestation, or even as its own character in its own right,  us something which I wish to achieve. Once again, I am also inspired by the use of dull, decaying colours.

Electra, performed in the Buntport Theatre

The reason this particular set design stood out to me as was it contrasted most set designs I had explored so far; The production, a contemporary look at Electra, has a extremely vibrant and peculiar set design. The colours range from warm yellows to neon greens, and the set is furnished with a 1970's look. The way this contrasts from the original source material, opting for a kitchen, rather then the palace for the central drama to take place, is an extremely interesting and bold move. It shows how even a classic Greek play such as an Electra, can be completely reinvented and transformed.

Bibliography/Photograph sources

Buntport.com, (2015). Buntport Theater: Electra Onion Eater. [online] Available at: http://www.buntport.com/reviews/electra.htm [Accessed 6 Mar. 2015].

JAPHY WEIDEMAN LIGHTING DESIGN, (2015). ELECTRA, Epidaurus Greece. [online] Available at: http://www.japhyweideman.com/electra-epidaurus-greece/ [Accessed 6 Mar. 2015].