What innovation did David Belasco use to enhance theatre realism?

David Belasco was a pioneer in the realm of theatrical realism, and one of his most notable innovations was the use of scented air ducts. This approach was aimed at creating a more immersive experience for the audience by engaging the sense of smell, in addition to visual and auditory stimuli. By incorporating realistic scents that corresponded to the setting and action of the play, Belasco enhanced the overall atmosphere and helped to transport viewers into the world of the play, thereby intensifying their emotional engagement and investment in the story.

While realistic sound effects, thrust stages, and live animals on stage contributed to the theatrical experience in their own ways, none of these innovations achieved the same level of sensory immersion that scented air ducts offered. Belasco's focus on creating a fully enveloping environment helped redefine the expectations of realism in theatre, establishing a precedent for future theatrical productions.