What are special effects in stagecraft?

Special effects in stagecraft refer to techniques that produce illusions or visual phenomena, which play a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling and immersive experience of a performance. These effects can range from practical effects like pyrotechnics and fog machines to digital projections and sophisticated mechanical devices. By incorporating these techniques, stagecraft creates a more engaging environment that captivates the audience and helps convey the thematic elements of the production.

While lighting techniques enhance the mood, choreographed movements focus on the performance aspect, and sound effects add dramatic emphasis, these elements do not encapsulate the broader spectrum of what constitutes special effects. Special effects specifically target the creation of unique visual experiences that would not be achieved through standard stage elements alone.