Compañeras Concept
This production relies on light to illustrate the environment of a prison that is not well maintained. The women also reflect on their past, creating memory scenes that happen in entirely different locations. Since the physical set is just a prison cell, creating effective transitions between these locations is essential so the audience comprehends different locations.
In addition to the various locations, there are mood shifts when the prison guards are in the cell with the women, and when the women are alone in their cell. When the prison guards are present, there is a very strict regimen the women follow. When the guards leave, each woman's personality comes alive. A subtle shift in lighting to allow a sense of warmth in the cell while the guards are out will help establish a warmer mood to the play. When the guards arrive a sharp shift will help the audience realize that what the women are about to deal with is serious.
With respect to color and texture, there are several moments during dances and memory scenes when color and texture play a huge role in the show. However, for the scenes where the show takes place within the prison walls, stark colors will help carry across the idea of fluorescent prison light, as shown above.
