Starting Your Career as a Theatrical Designer: Insights and Advice from Leading Broadway Designers

Description

In the first book of its kind to be published in twenty years, ten award-winning and current Broadway designers-five set designers, four lighting designers, and one projection designer-discuss the business aspects of the theatre world, sharing relevant insider information and strategies that will prove invaluable to aspiring and seasoned theatrical designers alike. Culled from years of experience, the information offered in these enlightening conversations will strengthen readers' understanding of how designing in the commercial theatre is different from designing in an academic setting or not-for-profit theatres. The conversations are accompanied by designer sketches, finished drawings, technical plates of drafting, photos of scale models, storyboards illustrating multi-scene productions and unique lighting looks, and photos from Broadway and regional theatre productions. If you've ever wondered what it really takes to make it in the world of theatre design, let these Broadway stars be your guide!

Since 1992, Michael J. Riha has been on faculty at the University of Arkansas and holds the position of Director of Design and Vice Chair of the Department of Drama. He has designed scenery, lighting, sound, and costumes for well over one hundred productions. Michael most recent work is as an assistant designer to Christine Jones on the upcoming, 2013, Metropolitan Opera production of Rigolleto as well as the Broadway revival of On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, starring Harry Connick Jr. Other credits include projects at the MUNY in St Louis' Forest Park, where he has worked with theatre professionals such as producer and director Mr. Paul Blake, lighting designers F. Mitchell Dana and Tony Nominee, David Lander. He has also worked as an assistant designer to Michael Anania on a production of Cinderella at the Olney Theater in Maryland. He has also served as the assistant designer to Steve Gilliam for the recent, National Tour of Fiddler on the Roof starring Topal. He is a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829 and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology. He lives in Fayetteville, AR.