“The Role of Technology in Transforming Oklahoma for ‘Grapes of Wrath’ Production”

Elon University’s production of “Grapes of Wrath” brings to life the story of the Joad family during the Great Depression with innovative lighting and sound design. Performance dates: April 3-5.

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Elon University is bringing “Grapes of Wrath” to the stage, a production that encapsulates the struggles of the Joad family during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl era. Set in the mid-1930s, the story follows the Joads as they leave their home in Oklahoma in search of a better life in California.

Directed by Julian Stetkevych, the show utilizes technology, specifically lighting and sound design, to enhance the storytelling. Lighting designer Mitch Fore emphasizes the importance of setting the mood and guiding the audience’s focus throughout the production. The use of lighting to simulate a dust storm, the Colorado River, and a thunderstorm adds depth to the narrative.

Michael Smith, in charge of sound design, highlights the role of sound in creating atmosphere and emotion. By incorporating sounds that reflect the grittiness and struggles of the Dust Bowl, the production aims to immerse the audience in the story. Speakers strategically placed in the theater will enhance the storm scenes and evoke the time period depicted in the show.

The cast, led by Parker Felumlee and Caroline Moore, recognizes the impact of the lighting and sound cues on their performances. Felumlee, playing Tom Joad, anticipates the visual and auditory elements to set the stage for each scene. Moore, portraying Ma Joad, emphasizes the importance of sound cues in enhancing the audience’s understanding of the characters’ circumstances.

Despite the somber tone of the show, there are moments of joy woven into the narrative. Moore finds delight in a dance scene that showcases the cast’s camaraderie and characterizations. Stetkevych highlights the scene at the Colorado River as a moment of pure joy and relief for the Joad family after enduring the harsh conditions of the Dust Bowl.

With a blend of technology, storytelling, and captivating performances, Elon University’s production of “Grapes of Wrath” promises to transport audiences to a tumultuous period in American history while celebrating resilience and familial bonds.

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