Scene Design: A Guide to the Stage

This is a short dover edition but it definitely covers the basics in a large format. Didn't have all the information I was looking for - for a fat, concise rundown of everything scenery and stage craft including tables, tools, rigging, etc, check out the book I use way more Backstage Handbook. Definitely happy this is on my reference shelf, though!

I wanted something that covered the essence of building flats for scenery that was affordable, and this did notdisappoint. Quite thorough. I will no doubt continue to study this craft. For those of you involved with community theater,a couple of great operas on small stages that will astound you with what can be done, might want to invest in tworeally great productions. One is the filmed version of Mozart's "The Magic Flute" by Ingemar Bergman. Probably the best version of that opera you will find. Another is Verdi's "Falstaff", by the Teatro all Scala; starring Ambrogiao Maestri as the descpicable, but somehow loveable characature of the obese ( clownish ) politician womanizer; and Barbara Frittoli as the object of his ( misguided ) affections. I am certain you will be astounded at what a small stage is capable of in the way of scene changes;...but particularly how a few well done flats can create a magical realm. Lighting is critical , too, of course, and I am looking into that. One pretty good book on lighting is "The Stage Lighting Handbook" by Francis Reid. A magical realm cannot be acheived without a delicate combination of these two arts.

This book is meant primarily to help you draft and design a scale model of your set. I have not used it for that yet, though it will certainly be helpful when I do.I got many practical tips for building and painting a set from this guide. I received in it the midst of designing my show, and the timing was great, as I was able to shave a hefty portion of time, materials, and cost from my plans. Very valuable, and I will refer back to it often.

Very useful , this book even included templates to help you create a model set .

Excellent product. If you are involved is set designing at any level, this book is a must.

eh...ok.

very helpful with great tips and ideas

Awesome products

Interesting