We go one-on-one with Cleveland-based set and graphic designer, Ben Needham, on the importance of set design in production. Among other topics in this episode include the technology behind his work, as well as his interest in immersive theatre.
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Setting can be just as, or more, important than the characters in a work. whether it is in film, TV, or theatre, the construction and detail of sets can almost make or break a production. In this episode, we have our good friend, Ben Needham, talk about the importance of set design. Ben runs Digital Squirrel Studio, a full-service design studio in Cleveland, Ohio, and has worked on numerous productions. Those range from theatre to motion pictures. He even helped us out on some of our projects, whether it was a bathroom set his team built for an upcoming horror film, to visual graphics for a past 48 Hour Film Project. He talks about how he uses virtual reality in visualizing his sets, as well as his involvement in the Academy for the Performing Arts and Shadow of the Run.
Talking Points
Ben’s background and the origins of Digital Squirrel Studio
Using 3D rendering to create sets and what Ben is using to supplement that
How he contributes to film and TV sets without having to be on-set
Using more advanced technologies, such as digital sets and projection mapping, and if they would replace practical sets in the future
His involvement with the Academy for the Performing Arts
His passion for being involved in the immersive theater experience, including being a part of the Shadow of the Run team
The fiscal feasibility of immersive theatre
Social Media
Facebook: Digital Squirrel Studio
Twitter: @DigitalSquirrelStudi
Shadow of the Run
IG: shadowoftherun
Facebook: Shadow of the Run
Twitter: @shadowoftherun
Academy for the Performing Arts
Facebook: Academy for the Performing Arts
Twitter: @AcademyPerArts