Bringing History to Life: The Set Design for Into the Breeches and the Legacy of Peter Wolf3/18/2025 ![]() Peter Wolf (1918-2005) was a renowned American set designer who has made significant contributions to the theater world, particularly in the realm of Broadway, regional theaters, and touring productions. He was known for his innovative and visually stunning designs, often bringing a sense of grandeur and dramatic atmosphere to the productions he worked on. Wolf had a notable stint with Dallas Summer Musicals at the Music Hall at Fair Park, where he contributed his talents to a variety of productions. His time with the company is marked by his ability to transform spaces and create immersive environments that support the storytelling of each production. His work with Dallas Summer Musicals includes some of the company’s high-profile Broadway-style productions. Wolf’s set designs for these shows have helped elevate the performances, making them more visually striking and enhancing the overall experience for the audience. Clink the links below to learn more about Peter Wolf: Dallas Observer Play Bill Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) Read my friend's blog post (Clare DeVries) on these drops by clicking here. So when designing the set for Into the Breeches at Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, I wanted to create an environment that not only encapsulated the spirit of 1942 but also paid tribute to the art of theater set design itself. This led me to an exciting, yet nostalgic decision: centering the entire design around vintage drops from the late Peter Wolf. Peter Wolf left behind an extraordinary collection of painted drops. These pieces, once used in iconic productions, carried with them a timeless beauty that perfectly suited the period of Into the Breeches. Set in 1942, the play takes place during a pivotal moment in history—World War II—and showcases the resilience of a group of women producing a theater production while their male counterparts are off at war. Incorporating these decades-old drops into the design felt like the natural choice for a show so deeply rooted in history. I carefully selected Wolf’s drops from previous productions, considering their colors, textures, and overall style, to give the audience the feeling of stepping into a vintage, wartime theater space. However, in order to allow these vintage drops to truly shine, I made the decision to scale back on the construction of physical sets. Rather than building large, elaborate structures, I focused on minimalist set pieces that would complement and frame the drops rather than compete with them. The set became a supporting character to the painted backdrops, with simple furniture and props that didn’t overpower the visual impact of the stage’s backdrop. This approach allowed the vibrant, detailed work of Peter Wolf to take center stage. It created a sense of intimacy and realism, as if the audience were peeking into a bygone era, witnessing a live performance from a time when painted drops were the primary way to transform a stage. The result is a set that feels both authentic and timeless, transporting the audience into a 1942 theater while also celebrating the artistry of set design and the legacy of Peter Wolf. By integrating his drops into this production, I was able to create a unique connection between past and present, honoring history while showcasing the enduring power of visual storytelling. The experience of working with these vintage pieces has been incredibly rewarding, not only for the impact it has on the visual narrative of Into the Breeches but also for the opportunity to pay tribute to the late Peter Wolf. It is a reminder of how design, like art, can transcend time and continue to inspire future generations. The image above captures the final scene of Into the Breeches, where the vintage drops play a pivotal role in setting the mood and atmosphere. The blue proscenium arch from The Sound of Music frames the stage, evoking a sense of grandeur and nostalgia. The red, white, and blue banner, originally from George M, adds a patriotic touch, perfectly fitting with the 1942 setting of the play. Lastly, the ship drops from Wonderful Town bring a sense of movement and transport, alluding to the broader world outside the theater. These carefully selected drops not only enhance the visual storytelling but also serve as a tribute to the rich history of theater design.
The show is running now through March 22nd, 2025 at the Irving Arts Center presented by MainStage Irving Las Colinas and Directed by Lisa Devine. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
1 Comment
G. Allen Cummings
3/17/2025 02:04:41 pm
Very nice well written article. Awesome photos!
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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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