Climate Conditions

Are the stage and house enclosed?

Is the performance dependent on natural environment?

Do the climate conditions change during the performance?

Does the engineering product function to gain audience comfort?

Are the Stage and House Enclosed?

It's common knowledge that outdoor performances are different than indoor performances. Climate is a major factor concerning the demands placed on the audience during outdoor performances, and is not possible to control. If the temperature is too high or too low or if the humidity is too high then the patron often loses focus on the performance from time to time. Lighting can be a challenge for night outdoor performances, as is sound enhancement for any outdoor performance. Rain, snow, bright sun, dew, and fog are also factors determining audience attention.

During these times, the theatre artists/engineers need to concentrate on finding ways to help the patron focus. Modern outdoor concerts sometimes use laser lighting to maintain the patron's focus. During the outdoor medieval pageant, special effects were used to grab and hold attention. And during the Elizabethan Renaissance, perhaps the beauty and imagery of Shakespeare's words and story kept the person standing in the pit or yard engaged.