Faculty compete in international exhibition


Designs by two ASU Herberger College School of Theatre and Film faculty members are part of the USA National Exhibit at the 11th edition of the International Competitive Exhibition of Scenography and Theatre Architecture, (Prague Quadrennial) held June 14-24 in Prague.

The Prague Quadrennial, known as the world's most prestigious competitive theater art exhibitions, has occurred once every four years since 1967.

The lighting design by Linda Essig, director of the School of Theatre and Film, and costume design by Connie Furr-Solomon, associate theater professor, are from the 2006 MainStage Theatre production of “Venus.” The set was designed by Douglas Clarke, an undergraduate student pursuing concurrent degrees in theater (design and production) and art (intermedia).

The women were selected by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) in the “Production – Multiple Designers” category. USITT is the largest organization of theater designers, technicians, educators, manufacturers and suppliers.

“I am thrilled to have been selected as one of only 15 lighting designers representing the United States in this prestigious exhibit,” Essig says. “I'm even more proud that a production originating at ASU is one of only two university productions in the ‘Production – Multiple Designers' category.”

Essig and Furr-Solomon's displays are showcased alongside exhibits from 60 countries. Furr-Solomon has a chance to gain one of several gold medals for a variety of themes, including best costume design.

The themes are judged by an international jury and bestowed by the Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic . A grand prize, the Golden Triga, is awarded to the country's exhibit that has the best presentation of its own individual theme.

The theme of the exhibit is contemporary issues in politics and culture.

For more information, visit the Web site www.pq.cz/en.