A Doll's House

Auburn University Theatre

Lighting/Scenic Design: Fereshteh Rostampour

Assistant Scenic Design: Katie Wolfe

Technical Direction: Matt Gist

Photos By: Katie Wolfe

A Doll's House was performed at Auburn University as the first live show after the COVID - 19 pandemic. The scenic design utilized a mixture of projections and scenic elements to create the atmosphere of 19th century Norway, and the homey-holiday feeling of the design was starkly contrasted by the tensions within the Helmer household. The Scandinavian wood aesthetic ties the whole house together inviting the audience into the story set out before them.

The scenic painting process for this show comprised of two main sections - the floor and the walls. The walls were treated with a beige base coat, and then layered with a mixture of sponging and spray with warm and cool greys before finally being toned down with a light white wash. The floor was first based in white, then lined into 4"x6' sections for the planks. Each plank was then given a separate treatment to distinguish it from it's neighbors, including, spatter, wood grain, dry brushing, sponging, and blocking. The doors were dry brushed with a cool grey, while the bookshelf was given the same treatment with a light brown. For the set dressing, the actors were photoshopped into traditional portraits of the period, and images of the Helmer children adorned the walls. The couch was reupholstered and painted, and knick knacks and books were added to complete the feel of a home.