Fundamentals of Theatrical Design

With clear and concise examples and hands-on exercises, Fundamentals of Theatrical Design illustrates the way in which the three major areas of theatrical design-scenery, costumes, and lighting-are intrinsically linked. Veteran theater designers Karen Brewster and Melissa Shafer have consulted with a broad range of seasoned theater industry professionals-playwrights, actors, directors, producers, stage managers-to provide an exhaustive guide full of sound advice and insightful approaches to design. From beginning designers just starting out to experienced directors looking to gain exposure and advance their careers, anyone with an interest in theatrical design is sure to appreciate this book's unique approach.

Karen Brewster is an Associate Professor of Theater at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), where she serves as resident costume designer and costume shop supervisor in addition to teaching courses in theatrical and costume design, stagecraft, and stage makeup. Brewster has been a faculty member at ETSU for more than a decade, during the course of which she has designed more than 100 shows, including Guys and Dolls, Cabaret, and Fiddler on the Roof. She lives in Johnson City, Tennessee.

Melissa Shafer is a Scenic and Lighting Designer and Technical Director at ETSU, where she teaches theater design and production. An active member of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology, she also serves on the board of directors of the Tennessee Theatre Association. Her freelance design and production credits include work with the Barter Theatre in Virginia, Manbites Dog Theatre in North Carolina, and the Civic Theatre of Central Florida, among many others. She lives in Johnson City, Tennessee.