Special Effects: Recent Episodes

National Theatre

Lighting, video and special effects are used in theatre to create moments of stage magic. They can have a stunning impact on the mood of a piece of theatre. Special effects can be subtle or devastating if they utilise pyrotechnics or weaponry. Video is being used increasingly frequently as a dynamic and effective way to produce backdrops or even fully interactive scene settings. This collections features videos that will let you into some of the tricks of the trade.

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The process of visualising scenes of a play

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An inside look at the Olivier's flying system.

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Exploring the features of automated lights

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An overview of the armoury's firearms and their effects

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Positioning and lining up video projectors for War Horse

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Creating a safe and convincing explosion on stage

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Describing a variety of swords and their uses