Theater Is an Important Part of the Historic Places - Assignment Example

Farnese in Parma, all’antica in Sabbioneta, Olimpico in Vicenza Semiotic aspect of theaters is an important part of the historic places. Theaters aremore than merely the places where dramas and art is being performed. They have a different and equally important dimension- architectural and design dimension. From an architectural and design view point the variables that stand out would be of the spacing, the design, architecture and the thought invested into its construction, accommodation, external factors such as locality within the city, the ambiance, art piece and many more elements that are more often neglected. Keywords: Renaissance, sculpture, baroque, architectural considerations. Three similar examples are the three theaters namely Farnese All Antica, and Olimpico. Each of these has an architectural and classical significance that stretches beyond their historical importance and dominance. Farnese Theater: Farnese in Parma is a model for modern day designs. Being the proud owner of being the one of first few to have a proscenium arch. Even in modern day, the stage placing allows for the most suitable views from all angles and serves as an epitome for all the modern day theaters and stage constructions. Stage design: Stage is being parted into two clear separations on each side of the wall, allowing for expanded visibility. The statues and paintings that are placed in parallel sideways adds to the design and architectural beauty and makes the stage look more brighter and rich. While discussing these three historic theaters, the thought should not be contained only to the historic precedence and performances being performed rather the edge being enjoyed by them with regard to the craft and semiotics and the deep readings hidden in them that are often being ignored. Besides the stage: The overall theater is a masterpiece not just with regard to the stage. The parterre is designed in such a way that it allows for maximum possible spacing and large number of visitors entertaining. Commonality: Baroque architecture was not just common amongst these three theaters, rather in the entire epoch and hence clearly evident in the designs in the interior and exterior (Carlson, 19). Seating arrangements: The seating arrangements are quite spacious and can allow for large number of spectators accommodation with sufficient spacing in between. Like any other theater the seats are arranged in an ascending pattern to allow maximum visibility. Multi floor seating spacing allow for large number of spectators accommodation as well as open preview of the entire theater and stage from every angle. Roof design: The roofs are sufficiently distant and spacious and allows for clear voice deliverance and with no reverberations what so ever. All’antica in Sabbioneta: Another name in the field of art and architecture that stands out with regard to the design consideration. Another work representative of the Renaissance art and architectural era. Overview: A combined package of ashlar quinons, sufficiently spacious seatings, accommodative of large crowd, niches and curvospezzati. Once an open air theater, was later on modified and roofed as changes and developments kept creeping in the overall design. Internal design: The internal design has space for orchestra, central stage, spacious isles; frescos are an added feature which is the master piece of Paolo Veronese. Other notable frescos and works include the contribution of Villa Barbaro and Bernardino Quadri to name a few. Statues of the Roman gods separate various columns that are around 10 to 12. Apart from the gods statues, the interior also includes the statues of the historic figures such as the emperors and rulers that ruled over the local land in previous centuries. An essential point that can be seen missing is the absence of two parts of the overall design namely sky coverage and the Scamozzi work. This was part of the package in its earlier and original existence four to five centuries back. The work of Scamozzi gave the overall appearance a new and curvy look to the stage from different parts of the theater. Olimpico in Vicenza: Motivated by the concept of amphitheaters, Olimpico is a gem in its existence in every regard. Highly reflective of the ancient Greek architecture and glory with regard to design and other minute details and specifications. Based on the central theme of Renaissance, it depicts the rich values of historic events and the sculpture that was prolific in those ancient times. It is amongst one of the oldest theaters in modern European history .It is house to opera performances, theatrical work and local stage. It is the brain child of Andrea Palladio. The components include usage of wood, stucco for decoration and support. Design theme: The design theme is based on the ancient and antique themes based sets and stages with surroundings decorated with grey walls and designs of various forms. The sculptural work in the surroundings adds to the overall beauty and personified art of the theater. Local ambiance: The theater is designed in part of the city that holds its own significance and adds to the beauty of the city. The streets were designed and crafted largely from the wood work. Accommodative of over 400 members at single time, holds value amongst the world’s greatest heritage places. Most of the seats are covered with wood having definite designs on them. Relationship to city: Besides the internal design and architectural excellence, these master pieces have been constructed in lieu and due consideration of the support to the city life, the transport, the spaciousness factors, the open air factor and numerous other accounts which are a must and should be taken into account. Scamozzi contributed towards it and provided the finishing touches through the later dedication in form of floors design which allowed the walls to be in consonance with the outer streets and overall ambiance of the city. All three theaters were designed in the era of modern Europe when the continent was in a reawakening mode and Renaissance had formally taken place. Amalgamated with old rich art and fine selection, the work so performed in 16th century still stands as historic and glorious piece of art even in the 21st century. References: Carlson, Marvin. Places of Performance: The Semiotics of Theatre Architecture. New york: Cornell University Press, 1993. Press. Read More