Oh, you mean that thing BEHIND the actors?

Hello world! This is Mia Rickenbach, one of two set designers for the show! Ben Jordan is my partner-in-crime for set design and construction. This is what we have done so far and plan to do for the set for The Front Page!

First, we researched past sets for the show and other newsrooms and offices from that period. These pictures were our main inspiration.

 

 

From there, we sketched many examples and discussed with the director about blocking for the show.

 

 

 

 

 

Outlines of the dimensions of each wall:

Window placement:

For this set we have four large tasks to complete:

1.       Breakaway glass window

We will be using a pure form of sugar called Isomalt to create sugar glass.

2.       Roll-top desk that an actor can fit inside

Though we have a large desk, we will be removing the back so that the actor can stretch his legs out behind the set when the top is closed.

3.       8x4 main table

If we cannot find a desk this large, we will build our own!

4.       “Phone Call Room” when one character calls another, the man on the line must be visible to the audience

One of the walls will be split in two sections which can roll away. Behind these we will have a fully dressed office space for the man on the line. Lighting during these scenes will be completely dark aside from the two people talking on the phone.

To follow the building process, follow @CHS_TheFrontPage on Instagram!