Set Design: Detailed exploration of role

A theatre set should:

• provide location for the action
• suggest the style and tone of the whole production
• create mood and atmosphere
• give clues as to the specific time and place of the action
• offer creative possibilities for the movement and grouping of the actors

All the things appearing on the stage other than the scenery are called stage properties, or props. Set props like furniture, draperies and decorations are the types of things that complete the set and they need to be part of the set design.

The set designer will normally read the script many times, both to get a feel for the flavor and spirit of the script and to list its specific requirements for scenery, furnishings and props. The time of day, location, season, historical period and any set changes called for in the script are noted. The set designer's focus here is on analysing everything that may be needed based on the dialogue in the script. Stage directions will help you to focus ideas but they can be ignored at this point in the process.

Set Designer's Tools

Set designers use several tools to communicate their ideas to the director and the other designers. These include:

• an initial rough sketch of the set
• floor plans drawn to scale showing from above the general layout of each set and the placement of the furniture and large props
• front elevations giving a view of the elements of the set from the front and showing details like windows or platforms
• a scale three-dimensional model showing how each set will look when finished

These visual aids help to ensure that everyone involved in the production understands each other.

Once the show opens, the designer's work is essentially complete.

Some online references:

Scenic Design 101: How to Create a Scale Model

Working In The Theatre: Scenic Design