Theatres have an incredible group of people that make every show happen, from choosing a season to the final bows. At Market Theatre, we're grateful for a dedicated community that helps us make each show possible! Meet Kat Bates – a local jack of all trades. Kat is a Theatrical Designer and first worked with Market as a Production Assistant in 2018. Since then, she has joined the theatre as the Production Designer for our 2023 shows Pinocchio and Winnie the Pooh. We're also excited to share Kat's knowledge with students this summer as the Director for our upcoming Mega Camps: The Lion King, Encanto, and Matilda!
The beginnings of Pinocchio costume renderings. Photo by Kat Bates.
What is a Production Designer, and how did you become one?
A production designer is responsible for the visual concept of the production. They identify a design style for sets, locations, props, lighting, and costumes, while working closely with the director and producers. I went to Anderson University to get a degree in Theatrical Design. After receiving my degree I began to work as a full-time freelancer both in production design and as a scenic artist.
Who or what inspired you to take this path?
I was inspired to go into the theatrical design field after taking a summer theater intensive with Anderson University and talking to one of the teaching artists, Jessica Trementozzi. Jessica was majoring in theatrical design and I had never thought of this as a real life job. The thought of being a designer sounded so fun I knew it was for me.
The finished Pinocchio costume renderings. Photo by Kat Bates.
What are the first steps you take when designing a production?
Designing is such a large undertaking that I break it down into a formula
Step 1: Read and analyze the script.
Step 2: Rough sketch and brainstorm ideas – writing down every idea that comes to mind.
Step 3: Collaborate and communicate with other design team members to gain a cohesive vision for the production.
Step 4: Draft, plan, and model build.
Step 5: Put together a design packet, including paint elevations, scale drawings and a full color scale model.
A set and props in progress. Photo by Kat Bates.
How did you get involved in theatre? What was your first theatre experience?
I was 10 years old when I signed up for my first theater summer camp with CYT. The show was 101 Dalmatians. I played a poodle with curly ribbon ears, and a pink tutu. I haven't stopped doing theater since.
What show do you want to design that you haven’t yet?
I have lots of shows on my design dream bucket list. But I would really love the challenge of getting to design a production re-creating the technical elements first used in 19th century theater.
How did you source the items for Pinocchio?
I was able to take props, and elements straight out of my own work toolbox, using old paint brushes, paint sticks, drop cloths, etc. The rest of the materials I was able to collect from hardware stores, online shopping, and other theaters.
What was your inspiration for the set, props, and costumes?
I took a lot of inspiration from fun kids TV shows like the Imagination Movers. I liked the way that the actors interacted with the kids while also wearing fun colorful jumpsuits. I work full-time as a scenic painter so I also took a lot of inspiration from what my day-to-day work life looks like painting sets.
When designing Pinocchio, which design element did you focus on first? Why?
I usually try to start with an overall look or feel for a production. I wanted this production to feel fun and colorful. Once I had a look in mind, I started with costumes, then moved onto a set design that would complement the colorful costumes. I then moved on to props and practical elements for the show.
Want to follow along with Kat’s process? Follow her design portfolio on Instagram @kat_bates_designs
Photo by Casey Bates
