Scenic Design Course

Lesson 1 • Understanding Performance Spaces

Surveys proscenium, thrust, arena, and black-box configurations and their design implications. Connects venue type to scenic strategy.

Lesson 2 • History and Evolution of Scenic Design

Traces scenic architecture from ancient Greek theatres through contemporary practice. Provides historical grounding that informs modern design decisions.

Lesson 3 • Reading and Interpreting Scripts and Briefs

Develops skills for extracting spatial, temporal, and atmospheric requirements from scripts and production briefs. Directly feeds the design research process.

Lesson 1 • Manual Drafting Conventions and Tools

Covers drafting instruments, line weights, and standard notation for scenic drawings. Establishes precision habits essential for all technical documentation.

Lesson 2 • Sections, Elevations, and Detail Drawings

Introduces cross-sections and front elevations as tools for communicating vertical design intent. Detail drawings convey construction specifics to scenic builders.

Lesson 3 • Ground Plans and Sightline Analysis

Teaches construction of accurate ground plans and sightline geometry for multiple venue types. Ensures designs are visible and functional for all audience positions.

Lesson 4 • Introduction to CAD for Scenic Design

Applies CAD software fundamentals to scenic drafting workflows. Students translate manual drawings into digital files ready for production.

Lesson 1 • White Card Concept Models

Focuses on rapid white card models for early spatial exploration without surface detail. Encourages iterative testing of massing and composition.

Lesson 2 • Model-Making Materials and Tools

Surveys foam board, card, balsa, and mixed media for scenic model construction. Material choice directly affects model accuracy and communication value.

Lesson 3 • Digital 3D Modelling for Scenic Design

Introduces 3D modelling software as a complement to physical models. Digital models enable rapid iteration and virtual walkthroughs for stakeholder review.

Lesson 1 • Safety Standards and Load Compliance

Addresses structural load limits, fire-retardant treatment, and performer safety requirements. Compliance with safety standards is non-negotiable in professional practice.

Lesson 2 • Structural Framing Systems

Covers wood, steel, and aluminium framing used in flat, platform, and unit set construction. Structural knowledge ensures designs are safe and buildable.

Lesson 3 • Surface Materials and Finishes

Examines luan, muslin, canvas, and rigid sheet goods as scenic surface materials. Finish selection affects visual texture, durability, and paint adhesion.

Lesson 4 • Scenic Joinery and Hardware

Details fastening systems, hinges, bolts, and quick-release hardware for scenic units. Proper joinery enables safe assembly, strike, and storage.

Lesson 1 • Automation Control Systems

Introduces motion control software, cue programming, and network integration for automated scenery. Control literacy enables designers to collaborate with automation engineers.

Lesson 2 • Lifts, Traps, and Elevator Stages

Details hydraulic and mechanical lift systems for vertical stage movement. Trap rooms and elevator stages expand the scenic vocabulary below stage level.

Lesson 3 • Revolves, Wagons, and Tracked Systems

Examines turntables, tracked wagons, and slip stages for horizontal scenic movement. These systems enable rapid scene changes and dynamic storytelling.

Lesson 4 • Integrating Automation into Design Concepts

Applies automation knowledge to design development, balancing spectacle with budget and safety. Students produce automation briefs as part of their design packages.

Lesson 1 • Collaborative Workflow with Lighting and Video Teams

Establishes communication protocols and shared documentation between scenic, lighting, and video departments. Coordination prevents conflicts and ensures a unified visual result.

Lesson 2 • Designing Scenic Surfaces for Projection

Examines surface geometry, texture, and colour as variables in projection mapping. Proper surface design maximises image clarity and minimises hot spots.

Lesson 3 • Principles of Stage Lighting for Scenic Designers

Covers angle, intensity, colour, and texture of light as they affect scenic surfaces. Scenic designers must anticipate lighting to make informed material and finish choices.

Lesson 4 • Video and Projection Mapping Fundamentals

Introduces projection mapping software, content workflow, and throw ratio planning. Students position projectors and design content areas within scenic drawings.

Lesson 1 • Procurement, Tendering, and Vendor Management

Covers writing scenic specifications, issuing tenders, and evaluating contractor bids. Effective procurement secures quality construction within budget constraints.

Lesson 2 • Scenic Budget Structures and Cost Planning

Breaks down scenic budgets into materials, labour, automation, and contingency categories. Accurate cost planning prevents overruns and supports design decision-making.

Lesson 3 • Production Scheduling and Milestone Planning

Introduces Gantt charts, build schedules, and load-in timelines for scenic production. Milestone planning keeps construction, delivery, and installation on track.

Lesson 1 • Portfolio Curation and Presentation

Covers selecting, sequencing, and presenting work in both digital and physical portfolio formats. A compelling portfolio is the primary tool for securing professional opportunities.

Lesson 2 • Capstone Project: Full Production Design

Students complete a full scenic design package for a complex production as a capstone project. The project demonstrates mastery of all technical and creative competencies.

Lesson 3 • Developing a Personal Design Concept

Guides students through concept development from research to a cohesive visual argument. A strong concept unifies all scenic elements and communicates clearly to collaborators.

Lesson 4 • Integrated Design Development Process

Applies a full design development workflow from concept through construction documentation. Students manage all drawing, model, and specification deliverables simultaneously.