Abstract

Semiotics seeks to fathom the values and meanings condensed into signs and symbols by investigating the sign system and the production of its meanings. Theatre uses signs and symbols as the paraphernalia of its communication. The study of theatre semiotics has remained both practical and theoretical in academics, especially in the area of lighting and scenery design (Theatre design). Theatre design transcends the provocation of sensation and beauty, there is more to its being. The ‘more’ becomes visible and effectual when we relate to its symbolic values. Therefore, this paper examines the quandaries associated with understanding the communicative mediums of theatre design using the knowledge of theatre semiotics with practical analysis of selected performances. The findings therein present that faithful translation of theatre design warrants us to accept it as a sign system communicating more than its visual appearance. The acceptance will consciously fund the detection of different interpretations of theatre design and showcase its effectiveness. Semiotics of theatre design refrains us from straightforward interpretation and opens us to a plethora.

Key Words: Theatre Design, Semiotics, Signs, Symbols.

About the Author

• Henry Kunle Afabor is in the Department of Performing Arts, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria.

^JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 16, No. 1, April 2024, pp. 87-96

© Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON).

Article Citation

Afabor, H. K. (2024). Signs and symbols as mediums of communication: Semiotic perspectives of scenery and lighting in selected Nigerian theatrical performances. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 16 (1): 87-96.

Full Article

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