Animated Scenic Projections for Live Theatre Production
Brief:
Theatre Ancaster’s youth division needed a full suite of projected visuals to support their staging of Matilda the Musical. The challenge was to create an engaging visual world that enhanced the narrative across a wide range of scenes — from quiet classroom moments to explosive musical numbers — while working within the technical limits of a youth theatre production.
Theatre Ancaster’s youth division needed a full suite of projected visuals to support their staging of Matilda the Musical. The challenge was to create an engaging visual world that enhanced the narrative across a wide range of scenes — from quiet classroom moments to explosive musical numbers — while working within the technical limits of a youth theatre production.
Idea:
I designed and produced a collection of digitally painted and fully animated scenic backdrops, tailored to each scene of the musical. Some environments featured subtle movement and atmospheric effects, while others were fully animated to heighten dramatic moments and musical transitions. The visuals were crafted to complement the young performers on stage and help smooth scene changes without relying on physical sets. I worked closely with the director to ensure visual timing and mood supported the emotional arc of the show.
I designed and produced a collection of digitally painted and fully animated scenic backdrops, tailored to each scene of the musical. Some environments featured subtle movement and atmospheric effects, while others were fully animated to heighten dramatic moments and musical transitions. The visuals were crafted to complement the young performers on stage and help smooth scene changes without relying on physical sets. I worked closely with the director to ensure visual timing and mood supported the emotional arc of the show.
Results:
The projections added cinematic dimension and emotional depth to the sold-out production. Audiences and cast alike responded enthusiastically to the immersive visuals, which elevated the storytelling and contributed to a seamless, visually rich theatre experience.
The projections added cinematic dimension and emotional depth to the sold-out production. Audiences and cast alike responded enthusiastically to the immersive visuals, which elevated the storytelling and contributed to a seamless, visually rich theatre experience.
Client: Theatre Ancaster
Website: https://theatreancaster.com
Production Program: link
Staff Credits
Director: Sam Frisk
Choreographer: Bailey Dalton
Music Director: Mark Reese
Stage Manager: Natalie Burtch
Projection & Animation Artist: Derek Douglas
