Principals of Design

Question 1

Balance

Answer 1

Objects, colours and other stage elements can be symmetrical providing an impression of evenness or asymmetrical providing an impression of imbalance or discomfort.

Question 2

Contrast

Answer 2

Occurs when there is a marked difference between two aspects of drama. This can be used to focus audience attention or used as a symbol or metaphor, for example, use of contrasting light and dark colours in design or contrasting use of comedy and tragedy in a play.

Question 3

Emphasis

Answer 3

Bringing the audience’s attention to something by making it bigger, stronger, louder, brighter or clearer. Emphasis can be part of writing, direction, acting or design.

Question 4

Harmony

Answer 4

The arrangement of elements (e.g. the use of particular combination of colours) that create a sense of congruity, order or calm

Question 5

Movement

Answer 5

The sense of energy and motion created by patterns in design elements

Question 6

Pattern

Answer 6

The creation of sequences that encourages the audience to anticipate and except that sequence to continue or change.

Question 7

Repetition

Answer 7

The selection of elements to be featured in a performance to emphasise as well as surprise especially when creating new associations

Question 8

Scale/ Proportion

Answer 8

The relationship between the size of objects presented on stage and their relationship with observed reality.

Question 9

Unity

Answer 9

The sense of connection and belonging created by the sharing of common qualities in the elements of design

Question 10

Variety

Answer 10

The offering of new pattern to the approach of design and performance.