By
Alys Holden, Theatrical Systems Designer with Walt Disney Imagineering; Teaches at the California Institute of the Arts.
Ben Sammler, Chair of the Department of Technical Design and Production at the Yale School of Drama
Description
This book provides the theater technician with a foundation in structural design allowing an intuitive understanding of why sets "stand
up". It introduces the basics of statics and the study of the strength of materials as they apply to typical scenery, with a minimum
of theory and many examples. The material is presented such that only a basic knowledge of algebra, geometry and trigonometry is required.
This useful text is also invaluable to professionals as a permanent handbook complete with carefully selected reference tables, which
are applicable to most theatrical situations.
Traditionally, theatrical design and carpentry are rooted in a craft-based tradition
that places a high value on empirically tested techniques; in other words, if it was done that way for a show and nothing fell down,
then that's the way it will be done.
Audience:
Technical theatre courses specializing in structural design. Professional stage technicians and scenic designers.
