The wait is finally over! MainStage Irving-Las Colinas proudly presents the opening of "On Golden Pond," a heartwarming tale of family, love, and the passage of time. Directed by Michael Serrecchia and featuring a detailed set design by Joseph Cummings, this production promises to be a highlight of the season. Be sure to secure your tickets for this unforgettable journey into the heart of Golden Pond. Whether you're a longtime fan of the play or experiencing it for the first time, you won't want to miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in its timeless charm and beauty. While you're here, take a moment to browse through the images below, offering a glimpse into the world of "On Golden Pond" and the talent and dedication of the cast and crew. From the rustic elegance of the lakeside cottage to the heartfelt performances that bring the story to life, each photo captures a moment of magic that awaits you on stage. So don't delay—reserve your seats today and prepare to be swept away by the enchantment of "On Golden Pond." We can't wait to share this unforgettable experience with you. See you at the theater! Running through May 18th 2024.
Click on the link to get your tickets! tickets.irvingartscenter.com/MILC/Online/default.asp Cast: Norman Thayer – Evan Faris Ethel Thayer – Mary Margaret Pyeatt Charlie Martin – Jake Shanahan Chelsea Thayer Wayne – Dayna Fries Billy Ray – Wyatt Hartz Bill Ray – Ehren Hartz Creative Team: Director – Michael Serrecchia Stage Manager – Cathy Parks Bardin Lighting Designer – Elizabeth Ross Scenic Designer/Set Dresser – Joseph Cummings Master Carpenter – Ellie Wyatt Sound Designer – Rich Frohlich Costume Designer - Michael A. Robinson/Dallas Costume Shoppe Admin producer/Properties Designer – Jill Stephens Sound Operator – Tully Hall Light Board Operator – Eric Ryan Tech producer – Rob Stephens Photography by Kris Ikejiri
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MainStage Irving-Las Colinas is delighted to announce that Joseph Cummings will lend his creative talents to the production of "Noises Off." Under the expert direction of BJ Cleveland, this timeless comedy promises to be a highlight of the 2025 season. Joseph Cummings returns for his third time designing the set for "Noises Off." His innovative designs and keen understanding of the play's intricate humor are sure to elevate the production to new heights. Directed by the incomparable BJ Cleveland, known for his sharp wit and impeccable comedic timing, "Noises Off" is a riotous romp that takes audiences behind the scenes of a dysfunctional theater troupe. As the chaos unfolds both onstage and off, laughter is guaranteed from start to finish. Join MainStage Irving-Las Colinas in July 2025 as they open the doors to to this uproarious production of "Noises Off." Don't miss your chance to experience the comedic masterpeice. Q: What inspired your set design for "On Golden Pond" presented by MainStage Irving Las Colinas?
A: I drew inspiration from the themes of nostalgia, family, and the passage of time that are central to the play. I wanted to create a set that would evoke the feeling of a cozy lakeside retreat, where memories are made and cherished. Q: Can you describe the process of designing the set, from concept to completion? A: It all starts with immersing myself in the world of the play and reading the script. Then, I begin sketching out ideas and gathering inspiration from various sources, such as photographs, artwork, and real-life locations. From there, it's a collaborative process of refining the design with the director, selecting furniture and props, and overseeing the painting and construction of the set until it's ready for the stage. Q: What challenges did you face during the design process, and how did you overcome them? A: One challenge was creating the tree backdrops to capture the essence of Golden Pond. Working with the late Peter Wolf's paintings was a bittersweet experience, as his talent was unparalleled. Another challenge was ensuring that every detail, from the furniture to the set dressing, reflected the time period and setting of the play. Overcoming these challenges required collaboration, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt and innovate. Q: How did you work with other members of the creative team, such as the director and lighting designer, to bring your vision to life? A: Collaboration is key in theater, and I was fortunate to work with a talented team of artists and designers. I collaborated closely with director Michael Serrecchia to ensure that the set complemented his vision for the production. I also worked closely with the lighting designer to ensure that the set was lit in a way that enhanced its beauty and atmosphere. Q: What do you hope audiences take away from your set design for "On Golden Pond"? A: I hope that audiences are transported to the tranquil shores of Golden Pond and that the set serves as a visual backdrop for the emotional journey of the characters. I hope they feel a sense of nostalgia and warmth, and that the set enhances their overall experience of the play. Ultimately, I hope my design helps to create a memorable and immersive theatrical experience for everyone who sees the production. Q: What inspired your set design for "On Golden Pond" presented by MainStage Irving Las Colinas? A: I drew inspiration from the themes of nostalgia, family, and the passage of time that are central to the play. I wanted to create a set that would evoke the feeling of a cozy lakeside retreat, where memories are made and cherished. Q: Can you describe the process of designing the set, from concept to completion? A: It all starts with reading the script and immersing myself in the world of the play. Then, I begin sketching out ideas and gathering inspiration from various sources, such as photographs, artwork, and real-life locations. From there, it's a collaborative process of refining the design with the director, selecting furniture and props, and overseeing the painting and construction of the set until it's ready for the stage. Q: What challenges did you face during the design process, and how did you overcome them? A: One challenge was creating the tree backdrops to capture the essence of Golden Pond. Working with the late Peter Wolf's paintings was a bittersweet experience, as his talent was unparalleled. Another challenge was ensuring that every detail, from the furniture to the set dressing, reflected the time period and setting of the play. Overcoming these challenges required collaboration, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt and innovate. Q: How did you work with other members of the creative team, such as the director and lighting designer, to bring your vision to life? A: Collaboration is key in theater, and I was fortunate to work with a talented team of artists and designers. I collaborated closely with director Michael Serrecchia to ensure that the set complemented his vision for the production. I also worked closely with the lighting designer to ensure that the set was lit in a way that enhanced its beauty and atmosphere. Q: What do you hope audiences take away from your set design for "On Golden Pond"? A: I hope that audiences are transported to the tranquil shores of Golden Pond and that the set serves as a visual backdrop for the emotional journey of the characters. I hope they feel a sense of nostalgia and warmth, and that the set enhances their overall experience of the play. Ultimately, I hope my design helps to create a memorable and immersive theatrical experience for everyone who sees the production. As a set designer, bringing a story to life on stage is both a challenge and a joy. For MainStage Irving Las Colinas' production of "On Golden Pond," I had the privilege of designing the set that would serve as the backdrop for this timeless tale of family, love, and reconciliation. From the moment I began sketching out my ideas, I knew that attention to detail would be paramount in creating a world that felt authentic and immersive.
My name is Joseph Cummings, and I'm excited to share with you the behind-the-scenes journey of bringing the set design of "On Golden Pond" to fruition. From the furniture to the smallest set dressing, every aspect of the design was carefully considered to evoke the rustic charm of a lakeside retreat. One of the most memorable elements of the set design was the incredible tree backdrops, expertly painted by the late Peter Wolf. These backdrops served as a visual anchor for the production, transporting audiences to the tranquil shores of Golden Pond. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the guidance of our director, Michael Serrecchia. Michael's keen eye for detail and his unwavering commitment to storytelling were instrumental in shaping the final look of the set. Under his direction, we worked to ensure that every aspect of the design served the narrative, from the placement of furniture to the color palette of the set. One of the most challenging aspects of the design process was the sheer amount of paint required to bring the set to life. In total, we used17 gallons of paint, each coat applied with care and precision to achieve the desired effect. But the effort was worth it; the rich colors and textures of the set added depth and warmth to the production, elevating the overall experience for both the cast and the audience. As opening night approached, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction in seeing my vision come to life on stage. The set design of "On Golden Pond" was more than just a backdrop; it was a character in its own right, shaping the emotional landscape of the play. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to this incredible production, and I hope that audiences will be transported by the magic of the set, just as I was during the design process. Behind the Scenes: Unveiling the Magic of "On Golden Pond" at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas4/26/2024 Welcome to the heartwarming world of "On Golden Pond" at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas, where every rehearsal, every set piece, and every performance brings this timeless tale to life in a truly unforgettable way. Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of this beloved production, starring Mary Margaret Pyeatt as Ethel Thayer and Evan Faris as Norman Thayer. Casting: Mary Margaret Pyeatt and Evan Faris At the heart of "On Golden Pond" are the iconic characters of Ethel and Norman Thayer, brought to life by the remarkable talents of Mary Margaret Pyeatt and Evan Faris, respectively. With their rich chemistry and nuanced performances, Mary Margaret and Evan have masterfully captured the essence of these beloved characters, breathing new life into their timeless story. Directorial Vision: Michael Serrecchia's veteran approach guiding Mary Margaret, Evan, and the rest of the talented cast is the experienced hand of director Michael Serrecchia. With a wealth of theatrical knowledge and a keen eye for detail, Michael has led the cast through a transformative journey, delving deep into the complexities of the script and characters to uncover the true heart of "On Golden Pond." Producers Extraordinaire: Behind the scenes, producers Jill and Rob Stephens have been instrumental in bringing "On Golden Pond" to life. Their hands-on approach and unwavering dedication have ensured for a memorabile time. In addition to their roles as producers, Jill has also taken on the responsibilities of prop designer and stage manager, further showcasing her talent and commitment to the production's success. The Artistry of Production: Central to the immersive experience of "On Golden Pond" is the detailed set design, meticulously crafted to transport audiences to the tranquil shores of Golden Pond. Every detail from the rustic cabin to the soaring trees, has been carefully considered and executed to perfection, thanks to the creative vision of Joseph Cummings. A Labor of Love:
As opening night draws near, the energy and excitement behind the scenes are palpable. With the entire cast and crew bring their passion and dedication to the stage, creating a truly magical experience for audiences. Join us on this unforgettable journey as we celebrate love, family, and the enduring power of connection in "On Golden Pond" at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas. Get tickets here! Cast: Norman Thayer – Evan Faris Ethel Thayer – Mary Margaret Pyeatt Charlie Martin – Jake Shanahan Chelsea Thayer Wayne – Dayna Fries Billy Ray – Wyatt Hartz Bill Ray – Ehren Hartz Creative Team: Director – Michael Serrecchia Stage Manager – Cathy Parks Bardin Lighting Designer – Elizabeth Ross Scenic Designer/Set Dresser – Joseph Cummings Master Carpenter – Ellie Wyatt Sound Designer – Rich Frohlich Costume Designer - Michael A. Robinson/Dallas Costume Shoppe Admin producer/Properties Designer – Jill Stephens Sound Operator – Tully Hall Light Board Operator – Eric Ryan Tech producer – Rob Stephens May 3-18, 2024 at Irving Arts Center By Ernest Thompson |
Behind the CurtainJoseph CummingsMy blog is all about the design process, set design, and designers I love. Take a look behind the curtain! Categories
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Recommended Set Design BookBy Clare Floyd DeVries
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