Q1B Lighting Response

Question 1

Q1B –
(Lighting) Bullet one: ‘Write down the title of the theatre event which you saw.’

Answer 1

The live theatre event I saw was ‘Grania’ at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin in October 2024.

Question 2

Q1B –
(Lighting) Bullet two: ‘Describe the idea from this event.’

Answer 2

In ‘Grania’, lighting was used to build tension in the moment Grania mistook King Finn for Diarmuid. The scene began with dim, low-intensity amber lighting from fresnel lanterns angled from the side, creating a soft, warm wash that reflected Grania’s vulnerability during her confession. As Finn lowered his cloak hood, red birdie lanterns angled from the floor gradually illuminated his face with a narrow, focused beam. The red tones and upward angle symbolised the danger and revealed Finn’s identity to the audience before Grania realised, creating dramatic irony. The deliberate increase in intensity heightened suspense and drew focus to Finn’s expression, adding to the shocking reveal.

Question 3

Q1B –
(Lighting) Bullet three: ‘Analyse how you could use this idea in your set text.’

Answer 3

I would apply this idea in ‘Blood Brother’ during Mickey’s confrontation it’s Eddie. Soft amber fresnel lighting angled from above could reflect the initial tension, while red birdie lanterns angled upward would highlight Mickey’s face as he raises the gun, symbolising his rage and foreshadowing the violence. The lighting would snap to a stark white flood as Mickey fires, before plunging into a blackout, reflecting the tragic consequences.

Question 4

Q1B –
(Lighting) Bullet four: ‘Evaluate what you hope to achieve for your audience.’

Answer 4

This lighting would grip the audience by creating suspense and focusing their attention on the emotions of the characters. The transitions and intensity would heighten the atmosphere, while the abrupt blackout would leave the audience shocked, reinforcing the devastating finality of the shooting.