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An Honest Conversation About Design

Sat 25 Jul 2026

Part of See It First 2026

Ever wondered how a massive “blue-sky” creative vision actually survives the reality of a budget? Or what the process is before a design team get into the rehearsal room with a director?

Whether you are an aspiring creative, a seasoned theatre-maker, or a massive fan of stagecraft, join us for a no-nonsense chat with acclaimed set and costume designer Richard Kent.

Richard is the designer behind Paines Plough’s highly anticipated production of After Party, presented by Traverse Theatre in co-production the Belgrade Theatre. With a career spanning West End productions, international opera, and new writing, Richard is joining us to have a honest conversation about the realities of theatrical design.

What we’ll be diving into:

  • The Director/Designer Dynamic The joys, the friction, and the art of collaboration.
  • Blue-Sky Ideas vs. Real-World Budgets: How to keep your artistic soul alive while staring at a not so favourable spreadsheet.
  • The Process: A transparent reflection on the pros and cons of the design process from the initial spark to the pressures of tech week.

It’s an open candid chat and a space to gain insight to an often closed process, so bring your curiosity, your design dilemmas, and your honest questions.

After Party is previewing at the Belgrade Theatre from Fri 30 Jul. More info and tickets here.

Please note: Places for this workshop are limited so early booking is advised.