Setting the Stage

Designing scenery is more than decorating and propping a stage, and in Sandra Goldmark’s introduction to scenic design course, the first step is to understand the play or story. Goldmark, assistant professor of professional practice (design) in the theatre department, says that before any design concepts take root, her students need to plumb the work for the key ideas, emotions, or the mood the author wants to convey. These elements need to be the basis for any interior or exterior locations, propping, and colors, among other aspects of a production. Once a point of view is established, the design process begins as class members translate and frame ideas for the scenes. For students who love the theatre, but may not be inclined or have the ability to perform, set design offers the opportunity to become part of the creative theatrical experience. See Goldmark’s sets for the Boys in the Band revival at alumna.barnard.edu/magazine.