Over and above the use of colored light as an aesthetic tool, integrating the different visual elements which comprise the
stage
picture into a meaningful unity and rendering a visual interpretation of the show, colored light can be used metaphorically to great effect.
Writers often use color metaphors in their works. Maria, in Buechner's Woyzeck, says: "... how red the moon rises"; Lorca writes: "Red the wind blew on the burning hill".; Saul Bellow: "A mild lemon light rinsed the streets".
Metaphors of color can be created, enhanced and sustained in the theatre not only in words but also by other theatrical means - scenery, costume and lighting. Language and light complement one another, and colored light can provide the audience with additional associative sources of imagination.
The colored light experienced in nature is distinctly different from colors used in theatrical lighting. Nonetheless, our experience with natural light, including the types of
artificial light
common in everyday life, serves as a basis for selecting color schemes for lighting the stage.
Our choice of color, based on an understanding of the nature of both natural and
artificial light
sources, must take into account the metaphoric impact of color and the sensations and moods associated with it.
Red - In nature - the color of sunset, flowers and blood. Can create a sensation of discomfort, foreboding and fear, and is associated with symbols of government.
In theatre, red is often used as a symbol of desire and mystery .
Blue - In nature - the color of sky and water
Visible to human sight only in good lighting conditions, is not easy perceive, and associated with mysticism and legend. Picasso chose the color blue as the principal color in a series of paintings (1901-1904) done in the most difficult period of his life (a period of wandering).
In theatre, saturated blue is not usually used for facial illumination, but serves to indicate nighttime or the time of day.
Blue is useful in creating contrasts, separating figure from the background and creating a sense of depth.
Light
tints of blue can create a cool atmosphere in lighting scenery or actors.
Green - In nature associated with plants and trees
The sensation of green is calming and easy to absorb, and green symbolizes coolness, pleasantness and hope.
In theatre, green is sometimes used to symbolize death, and is considered an unnatural light, used particularly for special effects.
Yellow - In nature - the color of the sun glowing, gives a golden sense of warmth . The Eskimos consider yellow to be the loveliest color in the world. In theatre, pure yellow is not suitable for illumination of the actor, and is used to light special elements of scenery .
Light
tints of yellow or orange-yellow can create a warm atmosphere in lighting scenery or actors.
