Devising: Taking a Design Role

Understanding the Design Role in Devising

A design role in devising encapsulates various aspects including costume, lighting, sound, set, make-up, masks, puppets, and properties. This role involves researching, hatching design ideas, preparing design elements, and then executing them in performance.

Be sure to comprehend the significance of the design concept. It should resonate with the themes and style of the devised piece. Moreover, the performance’s demands and objectives should influence the design concept formulation.
Remember that the design concept should elucidate the story or effectively transmit the intended message of the devised piece. Instead of distracting, it should bolster the performance.

Understand various types of stages and their varied uses. Common types include Proscenium Arch, Thrust, End-On, Theatre in the Round, Traverse, and Promenade.
Space relevance in a design role should equally be considered. The physical stage layout, distance to the audience, and exploiting of both vertical and horizontal space should be optimised as per the performance.

Stress the importance of time allocation. This includes different stages such as research, brainstorming, sketching plans, crafting materials, setting up, rehearsals, and revisions.
Depending on the chosen design role, it might be necessary to draught, model, or storyboard ideas for clarity and presentation purposes. This usually involves creating initial sketches or models, refining them, and possibly modifying them based on script requirements.

Learn about working with performers and directors when devising a piece. Comprehend their vision and discern which design elements would suitably translate this vision.
Be ready to revise your design vision according to the evolution of the devised piece. Be open to ideas and suggestions from team members.

Recognize that the aesthetics of your design should also fulfil the practical requirements of a live performance. Parameters such as safety, comfort, versatility, and durability have to be factored in.

Develop creativity, teamwork skills, and problem-solving abilities. Innovation, collaboration, and flexibility form the cornerstone to successfully executing a design role during devising.

Always assess and reflect on your design outcomes regularly. Detailed attention should be given to what worked, what didn’t, and potential improvements for future performances. This enhances your learning experience.