[SML] Building a stage

[Joe D]

There can certainly be challenges to adapting a space.  To help to visualize the limitations of a particular facility, certainly take a design for a typical show you do, and fit it into the new proposed space on stage. Also, plan the off-stage areas. Then, do a design for a show like you would WANT to do in the facility, that you were not able to do before.  

Be sure you don't ignore how you are going to move any set pieces, or handle backdrops. Is there enough space for actors and technicians to move around back stage, when you have your off-scene set pieces and furniture stored there? Check vertical space as well. Is there enough elevation for you to have lighting and have an actor go up a short flight of steps, without having to duck their head?

It helps to build a rough model of the space, with the proposed stage and seating area, and insert some scale models and cut-out silhouettes of actors. This also makes a lot of the discussion issues more apparent to other people that you work with.

Once you commit to the space, you are going to have to live with it for a long time.

-Joe