At the onset of their career in set design, they encountered numerous challenges, particularly in creating diverse settings for theatrical productions without occupying excessive space. This dilemma is common among novice set designers, who are typically accustomed to the conventional three-walled set configuration, consisting of a back wall flanked by two angled side walls. Such a layout is effective for plays set in a singular location, allowing the designer to craft a detailed and immersive environment that conveys both place and time to the audience.
However, the situation becomes more complex when a play demands various locations, as is often the case with classical pieces or musicals. In these instances, set designers face a crucial decision. They could utilize the theatre’s wings or fly space for storing alternative set pieces or opt for simpler, suggestive designs that engage the audience’s imagination for filling in the details of each scene. Alternatively, a thematic design approach can be employed, incorporating props and furniture while inviting the audience to momentarily suspend disbelief. Each of these strategies offers a viable solution for creating an engaging set design.
A notable challenge arises with the necessity of changing scenes when there’s limited or no space available for storing large scenic elements. A historical solution found in Greek theatre is the periaktos.
What is a Periaktos?
The periaktos, or periaktoi when referring to more than one, stands as a hallmark of set design ingenuity, offering a versatile solution for changing scenic backdrops with its three-sided rotating flats. This innovative device serves as a crucial tool in the set designer’s arsenal, facilitating the visual storytelling that is core to theatrical productions. Its historical roots and application underscore its enduring relevance and adaptability in the face of evolving theatrical demands. Here are three key points that highlight the significance and challenges of employing periaktoi in modern theatre:
- Historical Legacy: The concept of the periaktos dates back to 14 B.C., with its earliest documentation by Vitruvius in “De architectura”. Its use throughout the 16th and 17th centuries in both Italian and English theatre showcases its longstanding utility in creating dynamic and engaging stage environments;
- Versatility in Design: Each side of the periaktos can depict a different scene, allowing for rapid changes in setting with a simple rotation. This feature makes it an invaluable asset for plays requiring multiple locations, providing a seamless transition between scenes and enhancing the audience’s immersion in the narrative;
- Logistical Considerations: While the periaktos offers a dynamic method for altering stage backdrops, its effectiveness is constrained by the physical space available for its rotation. The use of multiple smaller periaktoi in sequence is a potential workaround, but this approach introduces its own set of logistical challenges, including increased setup time and complexity in scene transitions.
The periaktos exemplifies the balance between artistic creativity and practical execution, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation in theatre production.
Introducing Inverted Periaktoi
Confronted with a perplexing design problem by a colleague in a local community theatre, they innovated the concept of inverted periaktoi. Unlike the traditional prism shape, this design consists of three walls converging at a central axis, resembling a pinwheel. By attaching an additional double-sided flat to each outer corner, the structure can unfold into a comprehensive three-walled set, with each panel customizable to the designer’s preferences. It is advisable to maintain central doors for practicality.
They have implemented this design in various productions, from “The Merchant of Venice” to “Jekyll and Hyde,” adapting the concept specifically for the latter to include two large inverted periaktoi wagons. The inverted periaktos design stands out for its adaptability, facilitating seamless scene changes without demanding significant spatial allowances. This innovation is not just a testament to the ingenuity of set design but also pays homage to the Greek tradition of enhancing audience immersion by visually anchoring the narrative. Through the use of inverted periaktoi, designers can effectively create multiple sets within a single structure, thereby overcoming a significant challenge in set design and broadening the horizons for storytelling in theatre.
To Wrap Up
In conclusion, the evolution of set design from traditional approaches to the inventive use of inverted periaktoi represents a significant leap in theatrical production. This creative solution not only addresses the spatial constraints faced by many theatres but also enriches the storytelling process, offering audiences a more dynamic and immersive experience. By drawing inspiration from ancient theatrical practices and adapting them to modern needs, set designers can overcome logistical challenges, paving the way for more versatile and engaging stage environments. The inverted periaktos, with its ability to morph and adapt to various narratives within the confines of a single space, exemplifies the ingenuity and resourcefulness inherent in the field of set design. This advancement not only honors the legacy of past theatrical innovations but also sets a new standard for future productions, demonstrating the endless possibilities when tradition and innovation converge in the art of storytelling.