SET DESIGN
In Spring 2024, Anna Collins took an Introduction to Scenic Design class taught by Dale F. Jordan at Florida State University. She really enjoyed this class and the aspect of analyzing important parts of a script and creating a set design. She especially liked being able to attempt to get a message across to potential audiences via the set.
It is important to note that in these drawings we were encouraged to think creatively and bring unique ideas, possible or not. Thus, the work is described as "preliminary drawings" because usually there would be multiple drawings and drafts with the input of the director.
THE GLASS MENAGERIE
CONCEPT: This set design very heavily leans into the idea of memory. Meant to be in the perspective of Tom, the stage is overrun by themes in which he finds important as if he is reliving his memory of the events. For example, the set is overrun with ladders, fire escapes, and windows in order to emphasize the mundane city life in which Tom wishes to escape. The upper border features a marquee of a movie theatre, where Tom often visits in an attempt to find adventure.
The downstage set features an elevation in order to add levels and serve as a way for the audience to see actors from behind the furniture. It is separated with shear curtains which would represent the actor's being in a different room, such as the kitchen. The downstage wall includes more windows which transition into picture frames which would include snapshots of memories, including ones from the show, hinting to the fact that we are seeing the events unfold from Tom's memory. In the center, there is the photo of their father and an fire exit sign point to stage left, symbolizing how he has escaped. The idea would be that when Tom leaves, he will exit in the same direction.
The center stage of the set includes a dining room table, a day-bed, a coffee table, and a side-table with a phonograph on-top. There is a rug placed straight in the center which replicates a record, symbolizing both the importance of music in the show along with the concept that this memory is on repeat in Tom's head.
Thus, this set is purposely overcrowded and intense as a way to showcase Tom's inner perspective and look as if he is trapped within his own memory due to his feelings of guilt over the events that occurred.
Final Preliminary Drawing
Research and 3D Model
HAMLET
CONCEPT: In this set design, set on a thrust stage, the unique element is the stage being shaped to look like a sword or a dagger. This is a repeating element that is extremely important to the show due to the bloodshed that occurs in the final act. Similarly, a big part of this design is the use of shadows. There are many staircases and different elevations in order to create more shadows when paired with lighting design. A platform is placed downstage in which actors would be able to stand under to hide in the shadows since there are many occurrences in which character's spy on each other.
The downstage and side walls features gothic-style windows which would have lights placed behind them that would create another light effect with shadows. This is the biggest element which showcases the nobility of the family, along with the columns which outline the stage.
On the sides of the set, there is broken bricks in a pile of debris. This is meant to symbolize both the rotting of Denmark due to the treachery of the new king and also the character's descent into madness. The entire set would showcase this rotting and brokenness, starting from the bottom and making it's way up. Thus elements would be decayed, such as the wood and stone which are heavy in this set design.
Furniture would be added as needed. However, the concept is designed for minimal additions. For example, the tapestry in which Polonius dies could be hung on the railing. However, other furniture would be omitted such as the Queen's bed.
Final Preliminary Drawing
