Overview
The set designer is, somewhat paradoxically, responsible for designing the set for a the production. The design should be based on the director's vision and must conform to all fire/safety regulations. The set designer is also responsible for any artistic decisions made about the set, for example choosing paint colors.
Basics
The Ensemble usually performs term shows in La Sala de Puerto Rico and summer shows in Little Kresge. Digital models of both places exist- check the Ensemble locker or talk to other ensemble members to obtain them.
Before Auditions
The set designer should read the play and come with some general ideas for the set. They should then meet with or talk to the director about the director's concept for the set, and agree on a basic atmosphere as well as major set pieces (platforms, pilliars, or other such things that will need to be blocked around).
Rehearsal Period
Semifinal Set Design
The set designer should have a semifinal set design, preferably in digital format, by the date specified in their contract. VectorWorks is the preferred software for creating the set design, but some success has been had with Google SketchUp. Many older members of the Ensemble are familiar with VectorWorks; feel free to ask them for help if you're unfamiliar with the software. The semifinal design should be presented at the earliest possible prod meeting. The other designers, particularly lights, should give feedback how the design will interface with their departments. After the prod meeting, the set designer should meet with the TD to discuss the technical feasibility of the set. Remember that the TD has the final say in all structural/safety decisions.
The semi-final design should be sent to the show list.
Final Set Design
The final set design should be in a digital format. The final set design should be approved by the TD and director if possible before it is presented to the production staff and should be as detailed as possible. It should include sight lines, the spaces that any moving objects (such as a door) will pass through, and anything other information that could possibly be useful. The design should also conform to all fire/safety regulations.
Once the final set design has been presented at a prod meeting, it should be sent out to the show list and posted to the show dropbox/other public storage option. All future updates should also be sent out and uploaded.
Meeting with CAC
While the meeting with CAC is primarily the TD's responsibility, the set designer should attend if possible on the off chance the set needs to be changed. See the TD page for more information.
Description and Expectations
The space the Ensemble most often performs in is La Sala de Puerto Rico. The basic set design process goes as follows. At the preliminary design meetings, the director will talk about the over all design concept of the piece. With the feel of the play in mind, it is good to reread the script and think about possible play areas. For example using different levels or specific set pieces. It is also important to go look at the space and see what can be utilized. In Sala, the most important initial decision is how to orient the space. Be mindful if you want to use the kitchen doors as entrances, or if you want to use the balcony. When designing in Sala, you'll also have to come up with an audience layout.
Once design ideas have been exchanged between you and the director and the architecture is known, it is time to create a technical drawing. Don't be shy about asking any of the theater groups or Rinaldi to borrow furniture or other platforms. Another responsibility you have as set designer is letting the producer know how many people you need on build days. Either you or the TD is responsible for organizing people and tasks during pre-put-in hours.
Check List
1. Created a set plot
2. Told producer what paint to order
3. Approved set design with TD
4. Kept a list of where you borrowed set items from