A classical play in the UPLB setting is usually a tricky task. Students easily get attracted to modern plays that are held at places like the Social Garden or the Humanities steps. A D.L. Umali Hall affair is another thing, and a student production that aims for a Grecian accomplishment is far from effortless. Nevertheless, the actors, the publicity and marketing committee, the propsmen, the sound masters, the stage managers and the director gathered to form a team that would bring the glory of the Trojan women into the local stage. .
The Trojan Stage.
The three towering pillars give an instant allusion to power and honor. These strong vertical lines add a lot to the mood, symbolism and message of the story. Their height reaches to the topmost red curtains so it actually stretches out the stage and gives an impression of an honorable kingdom. The natural colors of the pillars are cast in black and gray, colors that set off emotions of sadness or grief. The black backdrop sets a grim but sophisticated quality to the stage. The thinner white draperies give a good contrast to the large black background. Its wispy and sheer quality alludes to weakness and frailty. They also served as the other two strong vertical lines, their delicate look contrasting with that of the sturdy pillars. One can read through this a lot, like the relation of men to women at that time, how the men are regarded ad how the women are portrayed.
The floor achieved its ruined effect through the marble-like painted linoleum and the hay spread all throughout the stage. The white and black dots made by the brush strokes gave the floor texture and roughness. The hay is the natural element of the floor, it contributes to the establishment of the geography of the place and the events that it underwent. Although it was not very actor-friendly, the hay stuck to the costumes and caused shuffling noises when the actors moved, it still gave the stage a unique look.
