The above image is the set from Arts Umbrella’s 2023 Summerstage production; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Production Design by Monica Emme
Lighting Design by Hina Nishioka

Calling all aspiring theatre and film technicians! We are happy to present the Pro-D Day Stagecraft workshop series – an opportunity for students ages 13-19 to explore specific areas of Stagecraft, taught by working industry professionals.⁠
⁠
The fourth workshop in the series is Set Design! This workshop will be instructed by Pam Johnson (Shaw Festival, Vancouver Playhouse, Bard on the Beach, Arts Club, and more).
⁠
February 16, 2024⁠
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM⁠
Arts Umbrella Granville Island⁠
$129⁠

A set designer works in the fields of theatre, film, and television, and is responsible for creating the visual world of a production. They work closely with the director and other members of the creative team in a highly collaborative process to imagine, design, and communicate the physical environment in which the action of the production takes place. This can include everything from set pieces and backdrops to props and special effects.

Set designers use their skills and creativity in art, design, and architecture to create immersive and convincing environments that help to tell the story and transport the audience to another world. They may work on a variety of productions, from small-scale plays to large-scale films or operas, and are an essential part of the creative process in the entertainment industry.

In this workshop, students will learn from a master set designer, who will share her wealth of knowledge and experience to inform and inspire the young theatre-maker in the exciting discipline of set design. Topics may include analyzing the script, conducting research, exploring and developing design concepts and communicating the design through the use of sketches, models, and drafting.

About the instructor:

Since graduating from Studio 58 as an actor in 1980, legendary Vancouver-based set designer Pam Johnson has designed over 350 stage productions. She has worked across Canada, from Montreal to Chemainus. Internationally her shows have been seen in Melbourne, Glasgow, Bangkok, Chicago, and New York. She has won several Jessie Richardson awards for outstanding set design, as well as a PACT Career Achievement Award. Pam was the resident designer at the Vancouver Playhouse for 24 seasons. She continues to freelance for Bard on the Beach, Arts Club and the Shaw Festival.

Pam has also made an important contribution to the Canadian theatre sector through her work as a teacher and a mentor to hundreds of theatre students and emerging artists. She served as the Head of Design and instructed in Set Design at Langara College for almost three decades until retiring from formal teaching six years ago. One of her key strengths is how generously she shares her experience and wisdom with young artists. Today, her former students and protégés can be found making theatre across Canada and around the world.

Limited spots are available.

Buy Tickets