Set Design
The Set Designer works with the Director to translate the
original
staging concept into the design of a set that can be built by the
Set Construction Foreman and his crew. This often involves a
compromise between the space needed by the actors to perform
and the physical limitations of the stage area and sight lines. In
the past, the Set Designer was often also the Set Construction
Foreman so communication was not a problem but if this is not
so, then the Set Designer must produce more or less elaborate
working drawings which the Set Construction Foreman can
follow. The Set Designer must have the artistic ability to create
an effective visual background for the play while understanding
the needs of the actors to move freely. She must also understand
the practical limitations of the set construction.
Set Construction
The Set Construction Foreman is responsible for building the
set
following the design provided by the Set Designer. Much of the
set may be built from pre-fabricated parts (flats, risers, stairs etc.),
but usually some part must be specially built. The Set
Construction Foreman must be familiar with the workshop tools
and the stock of pre-fabricated parts available and must know
the procedures for procuring new material. Most sets involve a
very large commitment of time and effort so the Set Construction
Foreman should know how to delegate portions of the
construction to his assistants.
Construction Assistants
They work under the direction of the Set Construction
Foreman.
Some carpentry skill is expected and ideally they should be able
to work independently on parts of the set delegated to them.
Scenic Artist
Some sets involve a scenic view painted on backing flats or
on
the back wall. The Set Designer may delegate this task to a Scenic
Artist who has the necessary skills.
