This is illustrated in the gray curtain backdrop used to illustrate the journey of Gloucester to Dover in the wilderness. (Act 4, Scene 1).
Unlike the bare stage that Miller opted for, his costumes were quite elaborate and played a significant role throughout key aspects of the play. Although the majority of the costumes comprised of dark and bland colours, it had the effect of highlighting the scenes where changes were made, to give the audience the opportunity to question the motive behind it. Miller strategically brought in these subtle changes in the scenes where he wanted certain themes to be emphasised. For example, in Act 4, Scene 4 Lear's madness and journey to humility was emphasised by the removal of his regal and elaborate cloaks, replaced by a crown of leaves and flowers.
Miller's 1988 interpretation of King Lear can be contrasted to that of a contemporary student. Where props and background settings were kept to a bare minimum with Miller, the student was concerned with creating a large spectacle with lavish costumes and monumental sets. This was done in an attempt to not only appeal to the extravagant taste of the modern audience, but to also aim to give and create historical accuracy to the play. The attention to a vibrant performance encourages the audience to forget itself, and become absorbed by the action on the stage by appealing to the sense of sight and sound. Special lighting is important as it helps distinguish the world between spectators and actors. The bright and lighted stage strongly contrasts with the dark auditorium to create a more dramatic and realistic illusion of the play. Forceful sound effects and music are used, especially in the climax of the play in Acts 3 and 4. The sound of thunder offstage will add to the powerful effects of Lear's speech and movement as he moves into a state of madness. .
Structure.
The structure of the play in both adaptations is richly complicated due to the tragic basis of Shakespeare's play.