The Royal Hunt of the sun - Techniques

The Royal Hunt of the Sun tells the story of the conquest of Peru, and through this the comparisons of the two cultures involved, the Incans and the Spaniards. It is a play that is aimed to produce an intensely memorable experience. Schaffer uses many techniques such as the use of set design, symbolism, music, and the use of the narrator, which helps to create a truly memorable experience to the viewing audience.

The set design is simple but alarmingly complex. The split-level stage is a device in which allows the viewing audience to get involved in the action, and gives action on stage considerable flexibility. As Schaffer said: “essentially all that is required is a bare stage and an upper level.” The lower area of the stage is the downstage area. The backdrop is a golden medallion of the conquistadors. This is multi-purpose as it folds out to create the sun on which Atahuallpa stands. When the sun opens it is used to inspire admiration for Atahuallpa and later to rouse ...