Robert Noah holding his SETC Sound Design Competition Award
Robert Noah, a senior theatre and psychology double major at Lee University, recently won first place in the category of theatrical sound design in the Southeastern Theatre Conference Design Competition.
Noah entered his sound design for Lee University’s production of “Antigone” into SETC’s presentation and competition among both undergraduate and graduate students.
“We noticed Robert Noah’s talent in sound design early on and were thrilled to offer him the opportunity to grow and learn in this area,” said Dr. Christine Williams, chair of Communication Arts and professor of theatre at Lee. “His work on ‘Antigone’ was wonderful, and I am thrilled that he has been recognized in this way.”
Having taken on many roles in Lee Theatre, Mr. Noah’s involvement in sound design began with Lee’s production of “When She Had Wings” in 2020.
According to Mr. Noah, the creation of sound design for “Antigone” was the product of several conversations with the rest of the production team as they combined elements of both the future and ancient past to convey a new yet familiar setting. Taking inspiration from costume designer Khristina Scoggins and her juxtaposition of Grecian clothing with modernist fashion, Noah sought to do the same with sound.
“I found that I could layer classical instruments with synthetic droning to create a liminal space that felt true to the work,” said Noah. “I wanted to steer clear of derivative futuristic sounds like those found in Star Wars or Star Trek and focus more on subtlety.”
During his time at Lee, Mr. Noah has designed for six Lee shows, including the upcoming production of “Jack’s Tale.”
“I would not have such amazing opportunities on the horizon if it weren’t for the faculty of Lee Theatre taking a chance on me and supporting me through my five long years of undergrad,” said Mr. Noah. “Winning first place in sound design at SETC is such amazing validation for the years of hard work that I have put into earning my degree.”
SETC is the largest nationwide theatre convention that helps theatre practitioners connect with resources and training opportunities. The event also hosts competitions in multiple areas of theatre, including design, directing, and playwriting.
For more information on Lee Theatre, visit leeuniversity.edu/theatre, call the box office at 614-8360, or follow LeeUTheatre on Facebook.