YC Prescott Gallery’s Jan. 17 exhibit explores the art of designers, set builders and costumers
Great theatrical performances are built on a connection between performers and the audience. But creating that connection requires the work of many artists; the actors you see, and the costumers, set builders, lighting designers and technicians you don’t. Yavapai College’s Prescott Campus Art Gallery takes you to the other side of the curtain for Behind the Scenes: The Artistry of the YC Performing Arts Department, January 17 through February 14 in the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center.
“Behind the Scenes showcases theater’s unsung heroes and their artistic contributions in creating the costumes, props, lighting and set design.” Heather Scott, Director of Operations for the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center, explained. “From the first steps of the initial concept on to final construction, this is a must-see for all lovers of the theater.”
Using costumes, drawings, and props created by the YC Performing Arts Department, Behind the Scenes offers viewers a rare opportunity to explore the craft, patience and sweat required to create the magical worlds of theatrical musicals. Every Anastasia, Hello, Dolly! Singin’ in the Rain or Phantom of the Opera begins on a drawing board, as skilled designers collectively imagine the world of each musical. Then hardworking set, costume and lighting crews assemble to create it.
“We typically use about 6-10 individuals to help ‘load-in’ the set for the upcoming show and dress rehearsals.” YC Technical Coordinator/Scene Shop Supervisor David Evans said. “The actual set takes about 2-4 months to build.”
As the resident company in the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center, the Yavapai College Performing Arts Department has built a reputation for presenting critically acclaimed, large-scale musicals like Phantom of the Opera, Hello, Dolly!, Anastasia, Jane Eyre, and this spring’s production of Fiddler on the Roof. A show of two-plus hours usually represents the labor of dozens of people working months, as artists, carpenters, tailors, lighting technicians and set crews build the sets, gowns, props and images that frame the story and propel it forward.
“When a show is running, anywhere from ten to 20 crew operate the physical set pieces, flown items, and props.” Evans said. “Their duties can be very laboring at times, like four stagehands moving 17 cast members on a rolling platform that looks like a train passenger car [in Anastasia].”
The Behind the Scenes exhibit will open Friday, January 17 in YC’s Prescott Campus Gallery – inside the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center. The opening will include a red-carpet reception from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring dramatic performances, live models in costume, a cash bar and free snacks. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.
The gallery will also host a Free Family Art Day on Saturday, January 18, from noon to 3 p.m. The day will feature an Art Project with Prescott Art Docents, a scavenger hunt and free snacks.
The Yavapai College Prescott Art Gallery is located at 1100 E. Sheldon Street, on the Yavapai College Prescott Campus. The Gallery is open 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Admission is free. For exhibit schedules or more information, please call: (928) 776.2031 or visit: www.yc.visualarts.com.
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Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, a baccalaureate degree, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.