Set Designer: Daily Activities

Preparing for the Set Design

Understanding the play’s context, themes, and characters: To design the set, a firm knowledge of the play is necessary. The set designer should read the script multiple times to understand each character’s personality, the underlying themes, and the overall context of the story.
Attending production meetings: Collaborating with the play’s director, playwright, costumer designer, and lighting designer during production meetings is fundamental for a set designer’s role. These meetings help establish the intended aesthetic and tone of the play.

Designing and Constructing the Set

Sketching and model-making: This important task involves creating preliminary sketches of the set. Later, these sketches are transformed into a scaled-down model - a 3D replica of the set - to help visualize the stage layout.
Choosing materials and colours: The set designer selects appropriate materials and colour schemes for the set. The choice depends on the play’s mood, the director’s vision, and practical considerations like budget and durability.
Overseeing construction: Once the final design is approved, the set designer oversees the construction of the set – ensuring that it adheres to the design and ensuring that the budget is adhered to. They may also troubleshoot any issues that arise during the construction process.

Rehearsals and Shows

Dress rehearsals: The set designer’s role extends into dress rehearsals where they ensure the set enhances the performance and does not hinder the actors’ performances. Any adjustments or changes to the set design are made based on observations from these rehearsals.
Managing the strike: After the show has ended, the set designer is typically responsible for the ‘strike’ - the process of breaking down the set and ensuring all borrowed or rented items are returned.

Safety Measures

Safety inspections: Set designers must ensure that the set is safe for actors, crew, and audience members. This entails periodic safety inspections and adherence to health and safety regulations.

Remember, precise and clear communication is a must. A set designer collaborates with numerous individuals from different departments, and clear, effective communication ensures everyone is on the same page in terms of set design and constraints.