Scene Design Sessions

Wednesday, March 19

A panel discussion of the life and work of Oliver Smith. Panelists will explore the contribution of Mr. Smith as both a designer for Broadway, ballet, and dance, andas an educator including teaching master classes in scenic design at the New York University Tisch School of the Arts.

This continuation of the 2006 session by the same title shares uses and processes of products not originally intended for the theatre. Attendees are encouraged to bring examples. This workshop continues the Sightlines articles about these materials.

Panel with dual AV. The same show designed by different designer- one on traditional media, one on digital media. Does the medium influence the design?

Come and share ideas for programming for next year's Conference. Get to know other professionals, educators, and students from across the country involved in scenic design.

The process and completion of scenic maquettes will be reviewed. Young designers are given minimal information: a locale, time period, social status, economic status, etc. From this, they research, sketch, and construct a half-inch scale, highly detailed white model. Discussion of methods, materials, and process of high end model work is included.

Thursday, March 20

Focusing so much time on the design process, design students typically neglect learning much about basic water media materials and methods. Information and resources will be provided to help students more successfully choose how to use water as a means of developing and presenting design ideas.

How to successfully adhere paint to challenging surfaces – such as ethafoam, non cellulastic materials, polymuslins, and other contrary soft goods – encountered by scenic artists.

Visual plagiarism- does it exist? In a time where visual images, designs, and personal and public art seem to be just two clicks away, is there a moral or legal obligation governing the practice of borrowing and adapting other people's work?

Friday, March 21

Scenic art is a whole-body activity with the potential for both acute and chronic injuries. Two career scenic artists and an Alexander Technique teacher share information and demonstrate how to have a healthy day and a healthy career. Covered will be case histories, basic physiology, recognizing and addressing potential problems, proactive shop administration and equipment, and making the most of resources such as workers comp providers.

Come and share ideas for programming for next year's Conference. Get to know other professionals, educators, and students from across the country involved in scenic design.

Like props but not sure what's next? A panel of educators and professional prop masters discuss specific job options (prop specialties) as well as basics about working in the props field, skills needed to be developed, sources of employment, and ways to set oneself apart.

Using the award-winning creative arts program at Ark Regional Services as a model, panelists will present their journey through a truly authentic theatrical experience that has changed their lives and the lives of individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. From Sophocles to Shakespeare, panelists will discuss artistic fulfillment, service-learning, and outreach opportunities.

Artists from the Bobbindoctrin Puppet Theatre will demonstrate a variety of puppet building techniques. Learn to create shadow, tabletop and rod puppets using materials found in most hardware stores. Learn tricks and techniques to give your puppets personality and life. Bobbindoctrin Puppet Theatre has been producing original puppet works for the benefit of the Houston community since 1995. Bobbindoctrin provides experimental adult puppet performances with low admission prices and gives actors, directors, playwrights, musicians, sculptors, dancers and engineers a much-needed and unique venue for their art while encouraging theatregoers from all economic strata to attend.

Many (most) scene designers have found unique and interesting ways to use Adobe Photoshop. Come and learn tips and tricks designers have developed from painting to lighting to photo manipulation and beyond.

Saturday, March 22

Barbara Taylor, scenic artist on the Late Show with David Letterman, will present examples and processes for edible props as well as other theatre, film, and television food needs. Those attending will be encouraged to share food recipes and stories.

Focus on some of the techniques used to create three dimensional models through CAD programs including the use of stereo lithography.

John Lee Beatty, well known set designer, will discuss his career and designs. In 2006, he was nominated for two Tony Awards, for The Color Purple and Rabbit Hole.

A dynamic lecture, with props, covering the construction and maintenance of stage combat weapons, a short history of sword types, safety, correct handling, blade options, trouble shooting, theatrical conventions, where to rent and buy, what to look for in quality weapons, and how to work with a choreographer.