From concept to reality, from notebook sketches to vector works drawing. A set designer creates the look for the set after consultation with the director and script. Making scaled set models using corflute and balsa wood to see how the design will work in the performance space. The set designer looks after the design seen on stage.

https://www.megwilsonartist.com/

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Podcast Episode Summary

00:00 Intro

00:58 What do you find most enjoyable about live theatre?

2:04 What is your job description as a Set Designer?

2:22 What skills are required to be a Set Designer?

2:56 Dose the design need to be practical?

3:40 What software or apps do you use?

5:34 Share with us an overview of the design process you go though?

Pre Production;

7:32 Once you are contacted for a project what are your first conversations?

9:16 Is it a lot a networking to get work?

10:34 What things are you looking for in the script?

12:15 Who are you communicating with though the design process?

13:18 What the usual time frame you have to work with in. From saying yes to the job, until bumping into the theatre?

15:15 Is there any time lines between first conversations and set being built that you have so you know you’ll be complete in time?

16:53 Do you have much to do with the set construction team?

18:35 Do you have a swab book of paints and texture to help you decide your finishes on your set?

19:44 How do you prioritise what you spend your budget on in your set design?

20:57 Are you involved in the prop process at all?

21:48 How does the performance space influence your design?

23:12 What scale do you work to when making models, and what materials do you use?

25:05 Do you ever have a creative block when ideas don’t flow? How do you get past this?

27:02 When you encounter these problems to do talk with other people with in the team or keep to your self?

28:33 What’s your involvement in the rehearsal room?

Bump In;

29:36 Are you in the theatre for bump in?

31:04 Is there any safety issues do you need to consider when designing a set?

32:16 How close do you work with the technical staff at the venue?

Tech, Dress Run;

32:59 Are you around the venue for technical and dress runs of the performance?

Bump Out;

33:46 Do you come back for bump out?

Post Production

34:12 What are your post production responsibilities?

34:55 How do you keep track of the different versions of the set design?

35:31 What do you find most rewarding about a being a set designer?

36:19 Have you had any weird design briefs that you have had to work from?

37:20 Any tips or tricks you would like to pass on?

38:11 Are the working hours for a set designer long?

39:14 Outro