Scenic Painting

Hair

Projection Screens

Each Projection Screen’s draft card pattern is hand-painted, referencing actual draft cards from the Vietnam War.

Four of the five projection screens are made of muslin, with the rest being scrim. The large surface areas have a base coat rolled on, with the outer edge being darker than the center, providing a clearing projection area at the center. Then, reference images are projected onto the stretched surfaces using an overhead projector. Texts and textures are then traced onto the surfaces using black paint.

Necessary changes are made to ensure the content is fit for the show. For instance, the largest screen has the name and service number fitted to that of Claude Hooper Bukowski, the main character of the production.

Newspaper floor

Both decks are finished using “newspaper mache” with tinted water-based adhesives. The color of the adhesive stain the newspapers, giving them an aged look to fit with the draft cards. The edges are textured with a darker color to emphasize the levels and depth. The floor is then covered with three coats of finishes, two glossy coats and one matte coat, to ensure its strength while retaining a paper look and feel.

  • Leading the cast of the production to help with the installation of the floor during the work weekend.

  • Finished product under work light.

  • Finished product under stage light during pre-show.

  • Finished Product under stage light during the first scene.

  • Lettering in progress for the stage-left balcony screen.

  • Just me being happy after opening night.