2.1 Set Basics

What would a play be without the set ? Set design and construction is a very demanding task for the Theatre Arts crew. Innovation, understanding, research, artistry and solid, safe construction are de rigeur in the Set Department. Set design and building is a team effort involving the talents and knowledge of many people. Good set design begins with the principles discussed on the following pages.

In this section you will learn:

• how to identify types of plays and their locale
• how to identify the demands of the script for a specific play
• that plays are interpreted by a director
• how to communicate to achieve a desired result
• how to identify styles of sets

You should have a good understanding of Theatre Roles and Communication to be successful in creating and building sets.