MUGSS Positions: Set Designer

The Set Designer works with the rest of the Design team (Lighting and Costume designers) to create the look of the show, as the director's vision dictates. The set should create the mood of the production, giving clues as to the time and location.

The Set Designer should also work with the Set Construction Manager to provide details of dimensions, scale and materials to be used.

The set doesn't only have to look effective. It has to have enough entrances/exits where the director requires them, be sturdy enough that it doesn't fall over if (when) an actor bangs a door shut instead of closing it gently (and generally not falling over is usually good. For anyone tempted to make a comment about the cast, I'll remind you things can fall backwards as well as forwards ;) ).

What to do

Read the script. Talk to the Director, Production Managers and other designers, as well as the Set Construction Manager. Note where and when the production is meant to be, time of day, any specific requirements in either the lib or the director's vision.

Create sketches of the set. A scale model is also a huge help to the Set Construction Manager and crew who have to build it, so they can see what they're working towards.

Things to be taken into consideration:

• Entrances and exits required by the Director. Also any particular spaces they want for important speeches, raised platforms etc
• Set dressings ie benches, trees etc. Does someone need a large rock/tree/lamppost to hide behind to overhear a conversation?
• Available space - stage dimensions at both the major theatre and touring venues you're planning to take the set to
• How it will be taken into the theatre and on tour? If you can't get it onstage or in the van, it's no good!
• Sight lines. The audience needs to be able to see actors, but do you need a space where actors can stand unseen?
• Any different heights/levels that are required
• Cost - a budget will be set, and if the set designer takes that into account the set construction manager won't be quite so inclined to strangle them come March! (One of the many reasons it's important for the two to work together)
• Safety. It can't fall down at a gust of wind. If there's a raised platform, do you need a barrier/handrail and how do you make that look part of the set itself?

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