One way to adjust the lighting on stage is to manipulate the output voltage to control light intensity. This is achieved by regulating the electrical current from strong to weak. The brightness of an object is determined by its reflective ability and the strength of the illuminating light. By manipulating the light intensity, the scene on stage can have hierarchical depth and extended spatial dimensions. This also allows for the flattening of the stage space or altering the object's appearance to convey different meanings beyond its original form. The style of lighting, such as high key, low key, or mid-tones, adds a distinct flavor to the stage space form.
Light and shadows work together to create a powerful expressive force. Shadows have their own unique strength - sometimes subtle and deep, and other times confused and hard to grasp. Contrast plays a significant role in creating strong shadows on stage: a key light with a clear direction of incidence can make a dramatic impact on the shadows. With a thick shadow, one can fall into a deep contemplation as if under a powerful force. However, scattered light with weak contrast creates a more elegant and blurred shadow that is hard to capture. A drop shadow has a unique effect when it appears at a certain position on an object, creating interesting changes to the shape of the object. When a shadow exists independently in a stage space, it forms an undisputed shape. Pictures mostly composed of shadows, with the actors outside the frame and only casting shadows, produce unexpected visual impact on the audience.
Light color is a result of varying wavelengths of light, and an object's color is determined by how it absorbs and reflects light. The "addition" rule applies to calculating light and color on stage, which differs from the "subtraction" rule used for painting. However, since all colors on stage are viewed by the audience, their acceptance and comprehension of color varies. Additionally, differences in the creators' perspectives and styles will affect color selection in their creations, leading to a blurred spectrum of colors.
While color is a personalized aspect of expression, certain rules apply to its characteristics, such as warmth, lightness, and purity, which can evoke complex contrasts and harmonious relationships between colors. However, color relies on shape to exist, as light is necessary to express colors in objects. Shape and color are complementary and can expand or distort each other's meanings. For instance, shape with intense coloring may impart a surge of energy because of light's role in displaying colors in objects.
The art of modern drama relies heavily on the harmonious combination of light, color, and shape. A skillful use of these elements can intensify the impact of the story, or conversely, provide a stark contrast against the characters' emotions. However, it is crucial to ensure that the application of light and color suits the narrative and complements the director's overall vision. Moreover, a constant pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement is essential in discovering new dimensions in the interpretation and use of color in theatrical productions.
