How does one still be a part of a theatrical production during a worldwide pandemic? Make it a podcast play of course! The creative team at the Moorpark College Theatre Department wanted to a filmed version of Macbeth, but it was deemed too dangerous for the cast and crew to come to campus and film. I provided an interesting solution for the director. The Director, Assistant Director, and I set up in my driveway and I created a sort of “drive in” recording booth. I set up an easy up tent, hung up moving blankets for better sound isolation, and stuck a microphone on a boom stand into each actor’s car. The microphone was thoroughly sanitized between actors and we were all six feet apart sitting in the driveway.
Fast forward a few months and I am deep in editing and designing mode. I am really enjoying this new experience with podcast sound design. It is so different from theatre so it is an interesting challenge for me as a designer. I have learned a ton about getting a high quality recording, Isotope RX suite, and taking a script intended to have visuals become a totally auditory experience. I am so grateful for the director Suzanne Fagan and her collaborative nature as a director.
The podcast version of Macbeth will be coming out this Spring. Happy listening! In the meantime, here is the trailer for the production.