The magic of theatre lies in creating a different reality within the confines of the stage, using the different aspects available to you. These include sound, light, movement and stage scenery. Art direction or production design is therefore an important part of theatre.

The stage is the space with which theatre artists work. Theatre art direction is not just about hanging a few canvases prints on the backdrop. It is a highly complex process with much room for experimentation and creativity.

The scene designer works in tandem with the director and actors to determine the look of the stage. This includes the props, the actual scene and backdrop. Basic design principles regarding colour, composition, light and space come into play and need to be applied here.

Today, various specialisation degrees in stage design, performance design, MFA in theatre design etc. are available and many art directors come from such backgrounds. Before such courses existed, stage designers often used to be artists, painters and sculptors.

Art direction is an exciting and creative career. It is also a popular career among young people today, particularly those interested in applying their interest in art and design in narrative environments. Many art directors work both in theatre as well as film and television.