Transformasi Fungsi dan Makna Prop dalam Teater Melalui Pendekatan Semiotik (Transforming Props’ Function and Meaning in Theatre Through a Semiotic Approach)

Abstract

Kajian ini meneliti transformasi fungsi dan makna props dalam persembahan teater melalui pendekatan semiotik. Props, yang sering dianggap sebagai elemen estetik atau fungsional semata-mata, memainkan peranan penting dalam membentuk naratif, simbolisme, dan emosi di pentas. Melalui kaedah kualitatif, kajian ini melibatkan pemilihan lima props berdasarkan undian oleh para pelakon yang terpilih dalam eksperimen ini iaitu (i)sudip kayu, (ii)kotak kasut, (iii)payung, (iv)tali, dan (v)cawan kecil untuk menganalisis perubahan yang berlaku daripada aspek penggunaannya melalui improvisasi pelakon. Dapatan menunjukkan bahawa props melampaui fungsi asalnya dan menjadi alat naratif dinamik yang memperoleh makna baharu bergantung pada manipulasi, konteks, dan interaksi pelakon secara individu dan berkumpulan. Dengan menggunakan teori semiotik Saussure, kajian ini mengenal pasti dua bentuk transformasi utama pemaknaan props: (i) pemaknaan literal berdasarkan identiti objek (ii)pemaknaan simbolik melibatkan fungsi objek, fungsi simbolik objek dalam konteks sosial secara umum dan gabungan antara ketiga-tiganya. Hal ini membuktikan kredibiliti prop sebagai satu bentuk aksi dramatik dan merupakaan elemen ‘performative’ visual dalam sesebuah persembahan. Dapatan ini menyumbang kepada bidang sinografi dengan membuktikan bagaimana objek harian, apabila ditafsirkan semula dalam persembahan, mencipta lapisan simbolik yang lebih mendalam serta meningkatkan keterlibatan penonton. Kajian ini menegaskan kepentingan props sebagai elemen semiotik dan performatif dalam teater kontemporari, memberikan pandangan berguna kepada pengamal, sinografer, dan pendidik teater.

Kata kunci: Props; semiotik; improvisasi; sinografi; persembahan teater

Abstract: This study investigates the transformation of the function and meaning of props in theatrical performances through a semiotic approach. While props are often perceived as merely aesthetic or functional elements, they play a significant role in shaping narrative, symbolism, and emotional expression on stage. Using a qualitative methodology, the study involved the selection of five props,(i) wooden spatula, (ii) shoebox, (iii) umbrella, (iv) rope, and (v) small cup based on votes by selected actors participating in the experiment. These props were then analyzed through actor improvisation to explore shifts in their usage. Findings reveal that props transcend their original utilitarian purpose and evolve into dynamic narrative tools, acquiring new meanings depending on manipulation, context, and interaction, both individual and collective. Drawing on Saussure’s semiotic theory, the study identifies two main forms of meaning transformation: (i) literal meaning based on the identity of the object, and (ii) symbolic meaning involving the object’s function, its symbolic role in a broader social context, and the combination of all three. The study affirms the credibility of props as a form of dramatic action and a visual performative element within a performance. The findings contribute to the field of scenography by demonstrating how everyday objects, when reinterpreted on stage, generate deeper symbolic layers and enhance audience engagement. This research underscores the importance of props as both semiotic and performative elements in contemporary theatre, offering valuable insights for practitioners, scenographers, and theatre educators.

Keywords: Props; semiotics; improvisation; scenography; theatre performance

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