Set Design

Set Designer

The Set Designer is responsible for the design and implementation of all scenic elements of a production, working within budgetary limits, and meeting all time deadlines.

Responsibilities

Pre-Production

  • Reads and studies the play; attends first production meeting at which Director presents his/her interpretation of the play. Discusses possible scenic treatments with the Director and Staff Production Manager and Technical Director
  • Does research on architecture, furniture and decor of the period as well as the locale of the setting and style of the play.
  • Generates thumbnail sketches for presentation to the Director by the deadline established on the Department Calendar. Discusses any suggested modifications with the Director and Staff Production Manager/Technical Director.
  • Generates ground plans, color samples and/or models in collaboration with Director and Staff Production Manager/Technical Director. Revises sketches and scale ground plan for final approval by the "Designed by" date on the Department Calendar.
  • All designers meet with Director(s), Production Manager and Technical Director with preliminary designs in hand on the "Preliminary Design Due" date on the Department Calendar.

Rehearsal Period

  • Explains designs, sketches, or models to cast and crew at first rehearsal. Discusses in detail with what each item of furniture and set dressing should be. Works closely with Props in selecting and approving drapery materials and other set dressing.
  • Makes complete working drawings and painters' elevations for Construction and Painting Crews.
  • Gives Stage Manager a scale ground plan to tape out on the floor of the stage or rehearsal hall.
  • Coordinates colors of set and furniture with Wardrobe Assistant and Props Designer.
  • Meets with Lighting Designer to discuss color choices and practicals, and to coordinate lighting and scenic elements.
  • Assists the Stage Manager in placing and spiking furniture, rugs, etc.
  • Ensures that appropriate people and/or organizations are thanked in the program for their contributions to the production.
  • Attends Stagger through/Stumble through/First Run through.
  • Attends Paper Tech if there are extensive scenery changes, fly cues, etc.
  • Is available for consultation during Load-in and any Scene Shift rehearsals.
  • Submits weekly Production Budget Reports to the Staff Production Manager/Technical Director.

Dress Rehearsal Period:

  • Attends at least one final Run through.
  • In cooperation with Props Designer establishes the placing of trim, pictures, ornaments, and any other set dressing on the set.
  • Attends all Technical and Dress Rehearsals making notes of any details yet to be completed.

After Final Performance

  • During Strike, the Set Designer will collaborate with the Production Manager, Technical Director and the Master Carpenter in returning material to storage and insuring ail items are returned in good condition.