“Designers are poets masquerading as mechanics.”

Standby proposes a practical philosophy of contemporary theatrical design that addresses all design disciplines, all theatrical collaborators, and all forms of theatre, from the traditional to the avant-garde. In a field that is too often dismissed as purely technical, Joshua Langman celebrates design as a transformative force with the power to elevate a performance and enable it to resonate beyond the bounds of its physical production. Beginning with the proposition that design contributes essential layers of meaning to an experience, Standby argues for a unique approach centered on the creation of revelatory theatrical moments.

In a mission to illuminate the soul of the craft, Langman investigates the purposes of design, details the elements of a production concept, uncovers the mechanics of creating meaning, explores the relationship of theatrical design to fine art and art history, and offers practical guidance on designing productions. He also considers what has changed as designers have embraced digital technology and suggests fifteen concrete methods for preserving the magic of live theatre in a digital age. Blending scholarship and storytelling, personal experience and contrarian wisdom, Standby challenges theatre-makers to harness the rich dramatic potential of theatrical design.

“Langman dives into theatrical design with a surgeon’s level of precision, dissecting all of the steps of the process and laying out a virtual road map from conception to completion. Any literary arsenal of texts on design will greatly benefit from its inclusion.”

— Cory Pattak, award-winning lighting designer

“Langman’s very readable schematic approach to design is a valuable tool for young designers learning how to approach the form.”

— Beowulf Boritt, Tony Award–winning Broadway scenic designer

“Langman has achieved something extraordinary: he shows us step by step how mastering the technical craft of theatrical design is merely the beginning — the real work lives inside an open invitation to create magic on the stage. As Langman explains, ‘Designers are poets masquerading as mechanics.’ After reading Standby, it is impossible to see this sacred calling as anything less.”

— Amanda Gronich, dramaturg, The Laramie Project