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How to Train your Dragon - Design
Date
2023
NTU
Nottingham Trent University
2023
2023
Final Year University Project
Element one industry project working with Delfont Mackintosh
Project Description
The purpose of this project was to explore the theme of ‘Celebration’, utilising music and innovative technologies. My project consists of ten designs as part of a full cast for a stage adaptation of the first ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ book by Cressida Cowell. The ‘celebration’ element comes in as 2023 was the 20th anniversary of the release of this book- in theory this show would be released alongside this to mark the occasion. I aimed to tell a story true to a well-loved book. Although the books were adapted into blockbuster animated films, the story told in these is completely different to that told in the books. This show is designed to be performed in Prince Edward theatre in London, so I have carefully considered both my setting and my audience within these designs.
Within my research, I have explored recovered traditional Viking methods of construction, to add a layer of authenticity to the design. I looked at immersive and interactive spaces and shows for similar age groups, as well as the most important part- what will children recognise as Vikings? How can new technology like projection aid in story telling alongside traditional stage puppetry? To aid in the design process, I turned the book into a stage script, complete with directions, music ques and costume changes.
Most importantly, the story teaches children how to be the unlikely hero, through specially composed traditional Nordic music, puppets and projection.
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