The Silent Majority: Sound Designers and Their Absence from Theatre Discourse

Today, in the bustling world of theatre, the role of sound designers is often overshadowed by the visual and vocal elements of performance. Writers, producers, and directors predominantly focus on lighting, set design, and actors' performances while the auditory landscape that surrounds them is often left unexplored. Sound designers, who are instrumental in creating the immersive experience and emotional resonance of a production, frequently find themselves at the periphery of the discourse. In this piece, we delve into the reasons behind the scarcity of sound designers' contributions and initiatives to rectify this imbalance.

The Busy World of a Sound Designer

When you are a sound designer, your schedule is typically filled with meetings, rehearsals, and technical setups. These demanding tasks leave very little room for leisure and reflection. Writing and contributing to discussions about the role of sound in theatre might be considered a luxury during these busy periods.

As a sound designer myself, I understand the constraints. Occasional writing attempts are made, but as soon as the deadlines and commitments become more pressing, these efforts often fall by the wayside. However, consistent and sustained contributions from sound designers could significantly enhance our understanding of the craft and its impact on audience engagement.

The Lack of an Open Market for Sound Designers

The professional landscape for sound designers is marked by a lack of a robust and accessible market. Unlike their counterparts in film or television, where podcasts, articles, and online platforms are abundant, theatre sound designers face a significant challenge in finding a platform to share their expertise and experiences. This absence of a public forum for sound design knowledge contributes to the marginalization of the role within the broader theatre community.

The current job acquisition process heavily relies on personal referrals. Directors and producers predominantly seek recommendations rather than conducting research online. This informal network poses a challenge for sound designers to gain visibility and legitimacy beyond their immediate network. Without a public platform to share their experience, many sound designers struggle to be recognized for their unique contributions to theatre.

The Case for More Accessibility and Visibility

Despite the challenges in gaining recognition, there are sound designers working diligently in the field. However, their work remains largely undocumented and inaccessible to the general audience. For instance, Darryn de la Soul, a seasoned sound designer, has been vocal about her contributions to audio for live events. Yet, when researching for an interview, her work was scarce and often hidden. Her expertise and experiences are valuable to the theatre community, yet these contributions are not easily discoverable through typical search engines or platforms.

Call to Action: Embracing the Sound Design Podcast Movement

To overcome these challenges, it is imperative to establish more accessible and inclusive platforms for sound designers. One potential solution is the creation of more podcasts focusing on the audio aspects of live events. The absence of such content is glaring, and the emergence of platforms like Sound Design Live can serve as a beacon for both sound designers and theatre enthusiasts. These podcasts can provide a space for sharing insights, discussing technical challenges, and exploring the creative processes behind sound design in theatre.

Moreover, fostering a community of sound designers who actively contribute to online forums, blogs, and social media can help to build a collective voice in the theatre industry. By sharing their experiences and insights, these designers can help to elevate the role of sound in theatre and inspire future generations.

Let us work together to change the narrative and ensure that sound designers are no longer the silent majority. A more inclusive and accessible market for sound design can lead to a richer, more immersive theatre experience for audiences around the world.