Take a look at the work that goes into creating immersive storytelling in theatre

Olivia Ground Social Media Editor

Silence falls over the crowd. The orchestra plays the first notes. Energy vibrates through the room as anticipation grows. Goosebumps form, and smiles widen as the curtain opens to reveal a set elaborately painted structures and period props, costumes, hair and makeup.

Before an actor says the first line, the audience enters the story. Kip Shawager, associate professor emeritus of theatre design of the Ball State University Department of Theatre and Dance, said these visual cues establish the setting, the time period and the tone of the story.

“We’re supporting the actors and the directors and everything they do by surrounding them with visuals to tell the story that makes sense,” he said.

The process for planning the design of a show at Ball State starts early, Shawger said. Months before rehearsals, the director meets to discuss the show’s creative direction with the costume director, set designer, lighting director, and hair and makeup director.