shayna patel

Project statement

CONTACT: A Case Study. Scenic Design. Contact was a show that performed at Columbia College Chicago. There were after months of difficulties, finding scripts, translating scripts, finding useable spaces, dealing with Covid restrictions, but it finally did happen. It was difficult to create a show during Covid, but thankfully this script was written to be about Covid and for Covid circumstances. For me as the scenic designer, this meant that I had to create multiple sets, so that all the actors could have their own space, without the risk of being in contact with anyone else. It also meant that I had to design sets I couldn't visit for two of the actors who would perform from home. The final show used many different sets, some seen live through zoom and others seen through filmed scenes. To create an environment that the audience could feel that they could see themselves in, and to fit the covid story line, I decided to create sets that replicated rooms that you would find in many different homes, your own homes. Some homes were inspired by Chicago apartments, some suburban houses, and even a fixer-upper house. It was very important for me to be able to connect the covid stories of these characters to the covid stories of those watching. Despite the show being a hectic rollercoaster, it was one of the most enjoyable and gratifying shows that I have designed at Columbia College Chicago.

About the Artist

Shayna Patel is a graduating Theatre Design and Technology major, with a focus in Scenic Design. Her journey at Columbia College began when she flew from England to tour the school and immediately knew that this is the school that she needed to study at. Since joining Columbia College Chicago, she has designed at least one show every semester, including Head Over Heels, American Menu, 4.48 Psychosis and How I Learned to Drive.

connect

Website: www.shaynadesigns.com