Expert: FRANCIS LYNCH - 5/25/2009

Question
I am creating a prison cell on stage and need it to be quick on and quick off. I wonder what the best way to do this would be for a large stage with a large auditorium? It is for an adaptation of Robin Hood in Shanghai! Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks

Answer
I don't know this play and don't fully appreciate the problem. Is this just a cell with bunks/bars etc or do  you need to convey more with the structure? What other furniture is required?

You state that it needs to "be quick on and off" does this mean that the set has to be on a truck? or is it an interval build between other productions? What are your proposed staging dimensions? i.e. How big an area are you envisaging as your acting area?
Very small claustrophobic? Or can the actors leave the area into a more expansive acting area?

Because i don't know the play  you may need to supply me with a little more information.

Best Wishes


Francis