For my first ever project project, my aim was to create a set design for the short story 'The Distance of the Moon' for the Shelley Theatre Venue.
The Distance of the Moon is a short story written by Italo Calvino, an Italian journalist and writer of short stories. It is about a group of people who travel to the moon to collect moon milk. They do so by propping a ladder up against the moon, and ‘scrambling’ up with a bucket and spoon. in this story there is the idea that the moon is much closer to the earth than it is now, and it focuses on the physical and emotional journeys of the characters. The story teaches the reader of the moral consequences that can occur with ‘Immoral Attraction’. It focuses on the themes of love, fantasy science and comedy throughout the narrative. The theme of love is explored through the story of a love triangle between the Deaf Cousin, Captain Vhd Vhd’s wife and the Moon.
The 1960’s was an era that showed many technological and scientific advances. ‘The Distance of the Moon’ written by Italo Calvino is part of the ‘Cosmicomics’ series which was published in 1965. It is one of many short stories that are inspired by science and fantasy. For my set I have decided to keep with the theme of the 60’s and science. I feel that the story can be shown through different props and motifs inspired by the 60’s. My concept ideas and design development will be encouraged by all of the important events and movements of this time - for example, retro, pop art, the space race, new inventions (including the cassette tape and the ATM). In my moodboard on the right hand side, it is clear that there is a scientific theme throughout - the colours are very bright including vibrant reds, oranges and blues which contrast eachother. The shapes are also all very rounded and not sharp - these are elements that can be thought about when designing my set for ‘The Distance of the Moon’.
