2023-08-15
Michael Reyes
Design Dispatch, New York
The concept of "the reset" in theater and performance art refers to the idea of re-evaluating and re-interpreting existing work, often by revealing previously unseen aspects or subtext. By examining the context and intention behind a piece, artists can provide new insights into their creative process and challenge audience perceptions.
The Unseen Heroes of Theatre: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain
The Reset reveals the play behind the play. In a proud collaboration with the National Theatre, we’re excited to announce The Reset: Three Hours, Three Photographers, Three Theatres – a free photographic exhibition documenting the unsung work of behind-the-scenes teams. This innovative project brings to light the often-overlooked individuals who tirelessly work to bring productions to life.
Through the lens of three talented photographers – Andrew McPhail, Matt Edgell, and Tony Soper – this exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the world of theatre production. From the intricate sets and costumes to the technical wizardry of lighting and sound, The Reset celebrates the dedication and expertise of the people who make it all happen. By showcasing their work in a visually stunning way, we hope to inspire a new appreciation for these behind-the-scenes heroes.
The exhibition itself is a masterclass in collaboration. Each photographer has been commissioned to capture the same three-hour period – from the start of rehearsals to the final curtain call – at different theatres across London. This allows visitors to see the similarities and differences between each venue, as well as the unique challenges and triumphs of production at each location. The result is a fascinating narrative that weaves together themes of creativity, hard work, and teamwork.
One of the most striking aspects of The Reset is its accessibility. As a free exhibition, it’s open to everyone – from theatre enthusiasts to art lovers to anyone simply looking for something new and interesting to explore. And yet, despite its broad appeal, the show remains deeply rooted in the world of theatre itself. By showcasing the intricate details and technical expertise that go into bringing productions to life, The Reset offers a fascinating insight into the inner workings of one of the UK’s greatest cultural institutions.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors will also have the opportunity to hear from the photographers themselves – about their experiences capturing this unique moment in time, and what they hope audiences take away from their work. This adds an extra layer of depth to The Reset, as it not only showcases stunning photography but also shares stories of creativity, perseverance, and passion.
The Artists Behind the Lens
Andrew McPhail, Matt Edgell, and Tony Soper are all seasoned photographers who have worked extensively in the world of theatre. With a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the ever-changing demands of production, they were the perfect choice to capture this critical moment in the life of The National Theatre.
Each photographer brought their unique perspective to the project – Andrew McPhail, with his background in fine art photography, capturing the intricate textures and details of sets and costumes. Matt Edgell, with his experience working on commercial shoots, focused on the fast-paced action of rehearsals and performances. Tony Soper, meanwhile, turned his attention to the technical aspects of lighting and sound, highlighting the innovative work of the theatre’s technical team.
As they worked tirelessly to capture this pivotal moment in time, each photographer drew upon their extensive knowledge of the theatre world – from stage management to set design. This deep understanding allowed them to anticipate and capture the most telling moments in production, resulting in a body of work that is both visually stunning and deeply insightful.
A Celebration of Teamwork
At its heart, The Reset is a celebration of the unsung heroes who make theatre possible. From the production managers to the stagehands, from the costume designers to the lighting technicians – each person plays a vital role in bringing productions to life. And yet, it’s often these individuals who fly under the radar, their hard work and dedication going unrecognised until the curtain falls.
The Reset changes that by giving a platform to the people behind the scenes. By showcasing their work and sharing their stories, we hope to inspire a new generation of theatre enthusiasts – as well as reminding those already in the industry just how crucial these teams are. As one photographer noted, "Behind every great show is a team of dedicated individuals who worked tirelessly to bring it all together."
The Exhibition: A Must-See for Theatre Enthusiasts
So what can visitors expect from The Reset exhibition? For starters, a stunning array of photographs that showcase the beauty and complexity of theatre production. From the intricate details of sets and costumes to the high-energy action of rehearsals and performances, each image offers a unique glimpse into the world of theatre.
But The Reset is more than just an exhibition – it’s also an immersive experience. Visitors will be encouraged to explore the various installations on show, including interactive displays that allow them to get up close and personal with some of the props and costumes from the productions featured in the exhibition.
And as they make their way through the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to hear from the photographers themselves – about their experiences capturing this unique moment in time, and what they hope audiences take away from their work. This adds an extra layer of depth to The Reset, as it not only showcases stunning photography but also shares stories of creativity, perseverance, and passion.
Conclusion
The Reset: Three Hours, Three Photographers, Three Theatres – is more than just a photographic exhibition; it’s a celebration of the people who make theatre possible. By showcasing the work of three talented photographers, this innovative project offers a unique glimpse into the world of theatre production. As we continue to explore and celebrate the art of storytelling through live performance, we hope that The Reset will inspire a new generation of theatre enthusiasts – as well as remind us all just how crucial the people behind the scenes are to bringing productions to life.
With its accessibility, depth, and visual stunningness, The Reset is an exhibition that must be seen by anyone who loves theatre. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience one of the most unique and fascinating exhibitions in the world of theatre – The Reset: Three Hours, Three Photographers, Three Theatres.