
Design I
Timothy Mann, M.F.A.
This course introduces the theatre student to the fundamentals of design especially as they relate to the theatrical design of sets, lights, and costumes.
Taking a beginners theatrical design class changed how I view theatre by showing me how much sets, lighting, and costumes contribute to storytelling. Instead of only focusing on storytelling through acting, I learned to begin with the script and its themes, like those we explored in Witch, and use them to guide visual choices. This helped me understand that design is not just decoration, but a way to communicate mood, time, and character to the audience.
Through research, models, and design projects, I gained hands-on experience turning ideas into practical designs. Creating environments and thinking about how light and costumes shape a scene taught me to be more intentional and creative. Overall, the class gave me a strong foundation in theatrical design and a new appreciation for how collaboration and visual elements bring a story to life.











