Noises off - constructing the set

Noises Off is a difficult play for small non-professional theatres to put on. There are three acts, the first one showing the stage set of the play within the play. The second act shows the backstage view of the same play and then back to the on-stage view in the final act. In the West End this is achieved by having a large revolving stage that can be quickly turned round during an interval. This is not an option in the more limited space available to Progress.

Aidan Moran and Martin Noble started designing the set about three years ago. They began with sketches on paper and then once the basics had been worked out Martin used modelling software to perfect the design and all the measurements. He even drew in sightlines from different parts of the auditorium to ensure that no-one in the audience misses any vital action.

The set is based on a metal structure for strength. It is built in modules that the stage management team can individually turn or flip to achieve the scene changes.

Other small theatres have shown an interest in how Progress is building the set for this popular play. Unfortunately we can't sell on the set because it has all been built in situ and won't fit through the doors.

There has been a huge amount of pre-planning and liaison with the other productions during this season. The staircases and platform were built before the start of the season and used for Darwin and Fitzroy. During WriteFest the constructed parts of the set were hidden behind a curtain at the back of the stage.

The Youth Theatre have the slot after Noises Off and were asked if they would select a play that could make use of the set. Director Ben jumped at the chance to stage Mojo, a play he had wanted to do for some time that needs different levels and staircases - perfect! Finally The Three Musketeers will use the staircases but the rest of the set will need to be dismantled to leave plenty of room for all those sword fights.

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Noises off by Michael Frayn, 7.45 Thursday 20th November – Saturday 29th November 2014, Progress Theatre

Progress Youth Theatre, Mojo by Jez Butterworth, 7.45 Monday 8th December – Saturday 13th December 2014

 

The Three Musketeers, by Ken Ludwig from the novel by Alexandre Dumas 7.45 Thursday 15th January – Saturday 24th January 2015, Progress Theatre

Full details about out theatre and all our activities can be found on our website.