

Northwestern University
Theoretical Project
The set design for "Catch as Catch Can" is of a dynamic space that reflects the evolving emotional landscape of the characters through the passage of time. Central to the design is a revolving turntable, which mirrors the cyclical nature of life and the constant flux of human relationships.
The stage is dressed with wallpaper that serves as a visual representation of the various locations visited throughout the play. From the warm and inviting hues of a home to the sterile and impersonal atmosphere of a hospital, the wallpaper seamlessly transitions to evoke each setting, providing a backdrop that grounds the characters in their surroundings.
As the play progresses, the lighting design becomes a key element in setting the tone for each scene. Initially bathed in a warm, home-like glow, the stage gradually shiffs to harsh, cold fluorescent lighting, mirroring the characters' journey from comfort to disillusionment. This transition underscores the emotional are of the play, and highlights the disintegration of relationships as well as the characters' struggle to find meaning in a world that feels increasingly alienating.
Framed photographs decorate the set. These act as visual reminders of the characters' past and the connections that once held them together. However, as time passes and relationships fray, these photographs gradually disappear from the stage, leaving behind empty frames that serve as symbols of loss and absence.
Through the design for "Catch as Catch Can," I aim to create a visually immersive and emotionally resonant experience that invites audiences to travel alongside the characters as they navigate the complexities of love, family, and identity. The revolving turntable, shifting wallpaper, evolving lighting, and disappearing photographs converge to form a kaleidoscope of storytelling, leaving an indelible impression of the human experience in its rawest form.
