Grinder Productions
The Home of Theatre that Dares to be Different
Designer's Toolbox
Theatrical design has been an integral part of live theatre since its
inception.  From the perfect acoustics of the Greeks to the
breath-taking special effects of Miss Saigon and Lord of the Rings
the designer's role has been to create the perfect environment in
which the story of the play may most plausibly unfold.  Unlike
visual artists who work largely alone stage designers are part of an
interdependent, collaborative team, working closely with the
director, their fellow designers and various technical craftspeople
to bring their ideas. To life.
The Designers
Theatrical Design can be broken down into
four distinct areas of responsibility.  Rarely will
one person have the skill sets to handle all of
these areas on a single production, though it is
common for one designer to handle two areas,
especially when working on a small show.  
Other specialists may be brought in to create
special effects or work with robotics or other
elements that a show requires that are not
commonly found in the theatre.

The Set Designer
It's the job of the set designer to create a
physical environment for the play - what the
audience sees.  Set Designers are responsible
for not just the set itself, but how it is painted,
and what props, furniture and set dressing are
included on it.  Click here for a more detailed
description of the set designer's craft.

The Costume Designer
Everything the actor's wear on their person in
the purview of the Costume Designer, who must
co-ordinate closely with the colours being used
on the set as well as the styles and conventions
unique to the period in which the play is set.  
Here's more information.

The Lighting Designer
Using some highly specialized fixtures and a lot
of technical know-how the lighting designer
subtly illuminates the stage and the actors with
a series of very specific goals in mind.  Here's
my article from Helium on this subject.

The Sound Designer
Sound design, outside of musical theatre, is the
creation of sound effects, underscoring and
incidental music in a production.  Here's a
brief history.
Help us improve this page!  If you know of
any good resources that should be included
here just let me know and I'll include them in
a future update.  In the meantime, if you
found this information beneficial please feel
free to buy me a coffee to help cover our costs!