SCENIC DESIGNER: PRODUCTION TEAM JOB DESCRIPTION
The Scenic Designer Creates the World of the Playwright
by Tom McLaughlin
September 18, 2005
The set designer, after discussing the interpretation of the play with the director, is responsible for designing a set for the production. Designing a set includes preparing a series of drawings and paintings which include all the information necessary for building the set, building a set model, and providing the master carpenter with detailed drawings of the set. The set designer coordinates the colors, tones, and shades used in the set. The designer oversees the work of the lighting, props, and costume crews to coordinate colors, tones, and shades. The following is a list of specific items which need to be done and a time-frame for accomplishing your tasks.
Before Rehearsals Begin
Begun Done
� ____ ____ Read the
play.
� ____ ____ Meet with the
director to discuss the concept of the show.
� ____ ____ Analyze each
act and scene for physical requirements: doors, stairs, windows,
etc.
� ____ ____ Research the
period of the play. Use set design books, art history books,
history books. Movies from the same period, magazines, and consult
the back of the play script.
� ____ ____ Obtain a
sketch of your stage complete with all the measurements you will
need.
� ____ ____ Draw a ground
plan of the set. Indicate elevations in the ground
plan. Meet with the director for approval.
� ____ ____ Make a scale
model of the set.
� ____ ____ Meet with the
director, tech director, stage manager, master carpenter, scenic
artist, lighting designer, props master, and costume designer to
discuss your drawings and model.
During The First Weeks Of The Rehearsal Period
� ____ ____ Present
your drawings and model to the cast.
� ____ ____ Give your
drawings and set model to the technical director and the master
carpenter. Be on hand to answer questions for them.
� ____ ____ Be present
when the stage manager marks the set configuration on the rehearsal
floor for the first time.
During The Mid-Rehearsal Period
� ____ ____ Continue to consult with the technical director, stage manager, master carpenter, scenic artist, lighting designer, props master, and costume designer to answer design questions and to supervise the design execution.
During The Run Of The Show
� ____ ____ Before closing night write a letter to the person who will have your position for the next show. Give that person advice based on your experience. File the letter in your 3-ring binder behind your job description.
Strike
� ____ ____ Remove and store your set model or save it for your personal theatre portfolio.
