Resident Costume Designer Marilyn A. Wall estimates that approximately 800 hours have been put into the build of the beautiful period costumes that will grace the stage. Each costume for this 14 person cast is an original design and created through the amazing work of Marilyn and her talented assistants.

Michael Eaddy, the theatre's Production Manager worked with his four person crew last week to create the set designed by Mihai Ciupe, a professor at the University of Florida Department of Theatre and Dance. Once you entered the theatre, you would have been astounded by the artistry and craftsmanship of the set. Pictures did not do the set justice. You must have seen it for yourself.

After Michael finishes and before Director Lauren Caldwell and the Our Town cast move onto the set, resident Lighting Designer Bob Robins and his assistant work their magic creating the mood and atmosphere you feel once the show begins. Next time when you're in the theatre, look up and see the lighting instruments and imagine the hours of work and care it takes to individually design, hang and focus each instrument.

Look forward to future articles spotlighting each designer in our on-line newsletter, Ovation. Also, once a year, before the season begins in August, you can become part of the backstage experience of the Hippodrome during our annual open house event. You can interact one on one with the designers as they mingle with the crowds throughout the day.