The production team behind the new song “Girl in a Bubble” faced unique challenges that required intricate planning and advanced technology. Director Helman shared insights into the complex execution of the scene, where mirror reflections became a pivotal element as the character Glinda questions her own identity both literally and figuratively.
The team spent three weeks on pre-visualization, carefully preparing for the production design that involved multiple reflective surfaces. The scene’s choreography features a camera that begins in one position and moves through a wall, only to make a complete circle and return, revealing the wall’s reflections. This necessitated a creative use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) to insert the reflections seamlessly.
Helman emphasized that this ambitious setup was accomplished without motion control, relying instead on “faith” in the process. The crew employed Technocranes, which had to navigate around sections of the set designed for the production but were later modified to ensure that viewers would not notice any disruptions. Aspects such as the parapet behind Glinda and the ceiling, which stretched 25 feet high in a two-story set, also relied heavily on CGI to maintain the illusion of a coherent space.
The elaborate execution highlights the merging of artistic vision and modern technology, showcasing the lengths to which the team went to create a visually stunning experience. As the song unfolds, it invokes deeper themes of self-reflection and identity, promising to resonate with audiences on multiple levels. The innovative techniques used in this production set a hopeful tone for future theatrical endeavors, blending creativity with technical prowess to push the boundaries of storytelling in music and performance.