STREAMING OF LIVE PERFORMANCE: A CASE STUDY OF “THE RED SHOES” BY HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN ON ZOOM

Abstract

This study was conducted as a qualitative case study incorporating characteristics of practice-based research to investigate the technical management of live-streaming theatre performances via the Zoom application using basic, low-cost equipment. The case of The Red Shoes, performed over three shows at PA Studio, School of Humanities, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, was employed as the central unit of analysis. The research process was organized into three phases: pre-production, live stream execution and post-Production. The findings indicate that effective live streaming can be achieved through systematic planning, clear delegation of responsibilities, and prior experimentation with the equipment in order to understand the strengths and limitations of both Zoom and smartphone cameras. From a technical perspective, the selection of appropriate shot sizes and the strategic use of zooming or switching techniques adjusted to match the emotional intensity of each scene was found to significantly enhance the aesthetic quality and perceived professionalism of the performance.

The study contributes a practical framework for low-budget theatre live-streaming, which integrates multi-camera planning, technical risk management, and approaches for maintaining theatricality and liveness in online viewing environments. This framework is expected to be applicable to theatre companies and educational institutions operating under resource constraints, enabling more accessible and effective dissemination of live theatre through digital platforms.