From Prometheus's Arc to Akiyoshidaiprinciples of stage design for the "multifocal" repertoire of the second half of the XX century

Abstract

We are presenting an analysis of the successive staging (1084-1998) of "Prometeo, tragedia dell'ascolto" by Luigi Nono in different theatres of the world , as a paradigm example of the search for an acoustic space appropriate for multifocal music in the second half of the 20th century. The play was first staged in Venice, in Saint Lawrence's Church and inside it Prometheus's Arc was built, following instructions from the composer. After 1985 it was brought to different spaces where various adjustments were needed for the play to be performed, firstly under the composer's supervision, until he died, and then under André Richard. In 1998, with the musical advice of André Richard's and Nagata Acoustics, a special Hall was build in Akiyoshidai (Japan) to show Prometheus permanently. From this example, information about different aspects and conditions in the design of Theatres suitable for this particular repertoire can be classified and analysed. A typological review is proposed covering: space conditions, functional conditions and the criteria to optimise acoustic parameters.