
A Midsummer Nights Dream
By: William Shakespeare
A Jeremy Torres Lab Theatre Production
Director: Alex Blanco
Technical Directors: Llialan Bennet, Kiersten Born
Lighting Design: Luke Stanley
Scenic Design: Andre Rodriguez
Costume Design: Kennedy Sanchez
Performed November 15-17, 2024 in Texas State Theatre Center RM 209
Design Specs
This reinterpreting of the Shakespeare classic aimed to highlight the struggles and oppressions faced by queer people throughout the world. This production changed the genders of Hermia and Lysander so that at the end of the play their "true loves" would be depicted as same-sex relationships. This production also included two choreographed song and dance numbers: Love On Top by Beyonce (when Nick Bottom and Oberon who was swapped with Titania fall in love) and Love Again by Dua Lipa (at the very end of the Rude Mechanicals Performance). The odd almost tacky nature of the show made me choose a more satirical approach to designing. I was heavily inspired by the Camp art style often associated with gay culture and fashion. I chose odd irregular yet organic shapes to depict this magical forest to make it more visually appealing. The shapes were also staggered to give more depth, with the larger top ones hanging behind the curtain and the lower ones adhering to the wall. These shapes surved as projection surfaces as well. I wanted to map unique videos that highlight the magic of this world and provide a contrast between the forest and the musical numbers. Furthermore, all elements of the scenic design were recycled. This was helpful both in saving money, but also to stay true to the camp style, as many camp art pieces use "trash" and other recycled or upcycled materials.



















