Nell Gwynn

Overview

Nell Gwynn by Jessica Swale was the first livestreamed mainstage production by Purdue University’s Department of Theatre, adapted for digital performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The production was performed at the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre and broadcast through a multi-camera livestream, combining traditional stagecraft with live video production.

Role

Production Assistant & Lighting Crew

• Assisted with lighting installation and focus
• Supported live performance and broadcast operations
• Collaborated with lighting designers, stage management, and film/video teams

Experience & Takeaways

This project provided hands-on experience in:

• Theatre production under pandemic constraints
• Translating stage lighting design for live video capture
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration between theatre and film crews

It highlighted how theatrical practices can adapt to new formats while maintaining artistic integrity.