Technical & Production Arts Flashcards

What is the primary function of a 'gobo' in stage lighting?

Answer: To shape or pattern the light beam

A gobo is a metal or glass template inserted into an ellipsoidal fixture to project a shaped or patterned light beam onto the stage.

In scenic construction, a 'flat' is most accurately described as:

Answer: A lightweight framed canvas or hardboard scenic panel

A flat is a lightweight framed unit covered with canvas or hardboard used to create walls and scenic backgrounds.

Which microphone polar pattern picks up sound equally from all directions?

Answer: Omnidirectional

An omnidirectional microphone captures sound with equal sensitivity from all 360 degrees around the capsule.

What does 'blocking' refer to in a theatrical production context?

Answer: The planned movement and positioning of actors on stage

Blocking is the director's planned choreography of actors' movements and positions throughout a scene or production.

A 'practical' in set design refers to:

Answer: A scenic element that actually works as intended on stage

A practical is any scenic element, lighting fixture, or prop that genuinely functions during performance, such as a working lamp or faucet.

In sound engineering, what does 'gain before feedback' measure?

Answer: How much a microphone signal can be amplified before causing a feedback loop

Gain before feedback measures how much amplification a microphone system can achieve before the output is picked up by the microphone and creates a feedback loop.

What is a 'sight line' in theatre production?

Answer: The visual angle from an audience seat to the stage

A sight line is the angle of visibility from any given audience seat, determining what can and cannot be seen on the stage.