How can an early 21st century sceneographer replicate a late 19th century zeitgeist for a new production of 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde?

Abstract

By creating a set design for David Edgar's 2007 adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 novella 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' this investigation will attempt to explain and demonstrate the techniques scenographers use to create a mood within the theatre audience. To create as well informed a set as possible, the designer will look at gothic conventions leading up to the publication of 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' as well as the specific characteristics of gothic art in late 19th century Europe. The social moods informing these Victorian gothic artists will be thoroughly investigated in order to find exploitable parallel ideas influencing modern society. Finally, a set box will be produced that demonstrates how scenography can be used to convey this social mood to a modern audience.