February 25th, 2010
It is a commonplace that fashions come and go. This is the case even where the most traditional theatre is concerned. Shakespeare’s plays are still performed today, and it has to be said, are as relevant as they ever were. However, the fashions in how to speak Shakespearean language, how to stage the Bard’s plays and what sets and props to use have altered over time.
For many years, everybody wore ruffs around their neck and got clad in doublet and hose. Nowadays, anything goes as far as costumes are concerned. It might be that everybody is in a black shirt and trousers. They might just wear modern dress or the play may be set in a particular time and place.
Theatre sets are usually avoided with productions of Shakespeare. This is because the settings for scenes fly around the world. Unlike modern plays which often seem to happen inside a single bedsit, Shakespeare’s plays often present wider spaces.
In the 1960s the Royal Shakespeare Company famously reinvigorated Shakespeare’s history plays. They did this with no permanent set, although they did use banners to show, for example, the opposing sides in The War of the Roses. Props became even more important than usual. In particular, weapons had to be both historical and practical.
Many of Shakespeare’s plays suit a medieval setting and we at Keeley Hire have lots of fantastic props and settings to help establish that atmosphere. In fact, however you want to stage your Shakespeare, take a look at the over half a million props we have.
Tags: Prop Hire, Props, props suppliers, settings, Theatre Sets, Theatrical Props
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February 23rd, 2010
It used to be that film directors were very experienced by the time they started making feature films. Often they had to devote years to making commercials or corporate films and had a fair few grey hairs by the time they made it big. That seems to have changed with young filmmakers seeming to appear from nowhere. Of course, they have often taken their time to get to the top as well. It’s just that by starting at ten years old, they can be a veteran by the time they’re in their twenties. This is made possible, of course, because of the affordability and availability of good quality video cameras.
There are a number of things these young filmmakers quickly learn. One of these is that your neighbours, friends and relatives probably aren’t the greatest actors in the world. Whilst they can’t always put their finger on exactly what is wrong, they know that it is not how Brad Pitt acts.
Another area where these directors quickly learn to lavish attention is that of settings and props. The importance of a setting of a film cannot be overestimated. After all, if they manage to film somewhere that is inherently interesting, it is as if that setting has become an extra character. Atmosphere can be the key in many genres of film. Poor props will simply make a film look amateurish.
At Keeley Hire we work for top television companies and Hollywood film producers. You can be confident that our props and settings will enhance your production. With such a diverse range available, prop hire has never been easier.
Tags: Movie Props, Prop Hire, prop suppliers, Props, settings, Stage Props
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