Set Design and Construction

This unit centers around the creation and design of sets for shows.  In this unit, students will learn:
  • Construction of basic set elements (platforms, flats, etc.).
  • Uses of different drapes (curtains, legs, teasers, scrims, cycloramas).
  • Ways to combine different elements to create a complete set.
  • Realistic vs. Metaphoric set design.
In this unit, students will create (individually or as part of a group):
  • A miniature flat.
  • A platform.
  • A platform with legs.
  • A blueprint and model of a set design for a show.

Vocabulary

PictureThe AHS production of "Peter and Wendy" Director: Julianne Aguilar. Set Designer: Matt Thomas
Cyclorama (Cyc)-A large unpainted drop at the back of the stage.  This is a blank canvas where lights can be projected.  With lighting the cyc can be changed any color.  It is most frequently used to imitate the sky.

Drop-A large piece of fabric suspended from the top of the stage, upon which scenery can be painted.

Flat-Sturdy wooden frames covered by either cloth (thick muslin) or thin plywood and then painted.  Flats can stand alone, or be joined together to create a larger surface.

Leg-A curtain, short in width, whose job is to hide the wing space of a proscenium theatre from the view of audience members.

Platform-Wooden frames topped with a sheet of 3/4" plywood (the deck).  Platforms can be legged using 2x4 or 4x4 boards to add height. 

Scrim-A loosely-woven drop which appears solid when lit from the front, but becomes transparent when lit from behind.

Teaser-A short curtain used to hide the rigging above the stage from the view of the audience.

Traveler-A curtain that spans the entire width of the stage.  Using a pulley system, travelers can open or close in the middle to reveal or conceal anything that might be behind them.  In stages with a fly system, travelers can also be flown out (up) or in (down) to reveal or conceal whatever might be behind them.

Assignments

In-Class Assignments

1.  Choose and read a play.  A variety of plays will be provided to the class.  If a student chooses to use a play not provided in class, it must be school appropriate.
2.  Decide on either a realistic or metaphorical approach. 
3.  Create a floor plan of the set.  This should be done from both a "bird's-eye-view" of the set to show the placement of platforms, flats, and set pieces, AND a "front-on" few to show elevation and height.  (This must be done for EACH location in the show.)  You should assume that you are designing this set for the GV theatre.  The proscenium arch is 36' wide and 16' tall.
4.  Create a scale model of your set using cardboard or foam-core.  This should be an accurate representation of the set.  

Lab Assignments

  1. Students will learn the proper operation of a drill.
  2. Students will be quizzed on the proper operation of a drill.
  3. In groups, students will create a cloth flat.
  4. In groups, students will create a platform.
Picture
Set for "Bye Bye Birdie." Director and Set Designer: Matt Thomas. Above: A red traveler, two legged platforms, and flats. Below: A drop painted to resemble the town hall of Sweet Apple, Ohio.