Steppingstone Theater 2017

Director: Ansa Akyea
Set Design Leazah Behrens
Lighting Design: Tom Mays
Props Design: Brooke Nelson
Costume Design: Clara Cavins-Wolford

Photos by Dan Norman

Ruby! Is a musical about Ruby Bridges. I took inspiration directly from my research. I wanted the design to feel like an extension of those photos come to life. I used a delicate color palette to evoke a sense of youth and innocence. I dressed Ruby, and her family and friends, in warm comforting tones, and used cool tones to separate the protestors. At the end, more of the cast added warm colored pieces to give a sense of increased unity.

I enjoy using a clear and concise color story when I’m designing for young actors. I had the opportunity to show my designs to these students, I really enjoyed how the students noticed and responded to my design choices.