Dr. Lee Brasuell, Associate Professor and Department Head, Theatre

“Engineering Emotion: The Role of Design in Theatrical Storytelling”

Come hear Department of Theatre Head Lee Brasuell’s interview with VP for Research Kenneth Sewell. They will discuss how theatrical design acts as a powerful catalyst for narrative construction and audience engagement, transcending its role as mere visual or technical support. It emerges as a vital storytelling medium that profoundly shapes the audience's sensory experience. The choices made by designers not only influence emotional responses but also enhance the audience's connection to the narrative. By strategically manipulating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements, designers create a cohesive and emotionally resonant theatrical world. From the striking initial visual impression to the intricate nuances of light and sound, design evokes specific feelings, establishes atmosphere, and highlights thematic concerns. Through a careful analysis of theatrical text, designers illuminate the profound and often subliminal ways in which their choices contribute to storytelling, fostering a richer, more immersive, and emotionally transformative experience for the audience.