Exploring Non-Diegetic Sound in Theater Design

This video tutorial, part of the Tech Theater Skills series, focuses on sound design in theater, specifically non-diegetic sound. Chris Schlemp introduces the concept and its importance in setting the mood for the audience. The video features insights from Doug Faxon, a sound designer, on the collaboration between sound designers and directors. It covers the functions of sound, types of non-diegetic sounds, and introduces trans-diegetic sound. The tutorial also discusses balancing diegetic and non-diegetic sound and poses interactive questions about sound in musicals.

What is the primary focus of this series?

• Lighting Design

• Sound Design

• Set Design

• Costume Design

What is the first step in the sound design process according to the video?

• Meeting with the director

• Setting up the sound equipment

• Reading the script for pleasure

• Creating sound effects

What does Doug Faxon listen for during his first meeting with the director?

• The director's previous works

• The director's favorite music

• Key words describing the director's vision

• The budget for the sound design

What is the main function of diegetic sound in a play?

• To create mood

• To highlight the actors

• To increase plausibility

• To confuse the audience

Which of the following is a common type of non-diegetic sound?

• Dialogue

• Sound effects from props

• Music not from a source in the play

• Footsteps

What does the term 'trans-diegetic' refer to?

• Sound that is created live on stage

• Sound that crosses from outside to inside the play's world

• Sound that is only heard by the characters

• Sound that is only heard by the audience

How can non-diegetic sound influence a scene?

• By making the scene more realistic

• By creating a specific mood

• By distracting the audience

• By highlighting the set design

What is a key consideration when balancing diegetic and non-diegetic sounds in a play?

• The number of actors

• The director's vision

• The historical period of the play

• The length of the play

In earlier historical periods, how was sound design typically used in plays?

• To let the audience decide what to feel

• To tell the audience exactly what to feel

• To highlight the costumes

• To create confusion

What role does sound play in storytelling according to the video?

• It is not important

• It is only used for transitions

• It is another character in the play

• It is a minor element