Stage Design

Stage design is the art of creating the look of a stage for a play or show. A stage designer decides what the audience will see. They design the sets, backdrops, and props. Good stage design helps tell the story and makes the show more exciting.

What Stage Designers Do

Stage designers read the script and imagine the world of the play. They draw sketches and build models of the set. They choose colors, shapes, and materials. Some sets look like real rooms or forests. Others use simple shapes and lights to create a mood.

Building the Set

After the design is approved, builders construct the set. They use wood, paint, and fabric. Some sets have moving parts like turntables or elevators. Stage designers also work with lighting designers to make the set look just right. Everything must be safe for the actors.

Fun Facts

• Some Broadway shows spend millions of dollars on their stage sets.
• The musical Wicked has a giant mechanical dragon above the stage.
• Stage sets are often built to be taken apart quickly between scenes.

Did You Know?

The stage set for the musical Hamilton uses a turntable built into the floor that spins the actors around during songs!