“A Considered Approach: Behind the scenes on the sound design for a unique theatrical production,” an article about the sound design workflow for the Spring Theatre production of The Last Days of Judas Iscariot, was the cover story for the May issue of Live Sound International. The article was also featured by ProSoundWeb.
Written by the play’s sound designer, Michael Lawrence of Precision Audio Services, the article explores some of what Lawrence calls the “unique audio challenges” presented by a production that called for a “theater-style mix both for a live audience and a live stream simultaneously.” From set design considerations to the need for multiple cameras for live streaming to allowing for small audience seating — all with social distancing in mind — Lawrence described how he tackled the show’s complicated sound needs.
Lawrence credited Associate Professor of Theatre Mark Cryer, who directed the play, for his “high level of trust in his design team” and being “very sensitive to the technical complexities that sometimes lie hidden beneath seemingly simple design decisions.”
Also contributing to the success of the production, Lawrence said, was the competence of sound assistant Olivia Batal ’23. “I’m always excited to see that potential and talent, and I’m confident she has a bright future in pro audio if she decides to pursue it,” he noted. A photo of Batal at a mixing console accompanied the article and was featured on the magazine cover.
