Sarah Ruhl’s Eurydice is a modern and abstract play of the classical Greek tale of Eurydice and Orpheus. From reading the play to the actual building of a set, is a lengthy process which requires extensive research, frequent discussion, and design skill. Set designers carefully read through a script to find ideas of images, symbols, movement, and era which are written down and sketched according to what the designer envisioned. These ideas are then presented and discussed with the directors and managers of the play to be produced. In this collaboration it is important to successfully communicate one’s ideas and understand the ideas of those you work with. The director will supply input on what he needs in order for the actors to be able to perform; artistic, lighting, and costume designers will add their thoughts as well. All ideas need to be effectively discussed, considered, and applied to achieve a well produced play. I will present my process and collaboration with director, Mike Hartwell, of creating a set design and a model for Eurydice.

Conceptualize, Discuss, and Design: Creating the set for Eurydice by playwright Sarah Ruhl