SUMMER PROGRAM 2013
21
When Mike Isaacson invited us to design this season’s
program cover, we were thrilled and jumped at the
opportunity. Since we’re officially retiring from
summer stock this year, Mike suggested that our
cover design incorporate “what The Muny has come
to mean” for us over the 20 summer seasons we’ve
spent in Forest Park. And since we spend most of our
time backstage, that became the inspiration for the design.
Backstage at The Muny, in the shadows behind the scenery, where
actors wait, is a magical place to us, and possibly a mysterious one
to those who sit in the seats out front. With bright lights streaming
through an opening, we catch a glimpse of the orchestra conductor
and the audience, suggesting the excitement and anticipation that
accompanies a night in Forest Park, under the stars at The Muny.
Oh, and of course, perched above is a resident raccoon, known to
steal the show more than once! If you look closely, you’ll see a little
mouse, too; he’s watching the audience watching the show. The
actors are rather short and squatty, much like Munchkins; the arm
of a spear carrier-in-waiting is a tribute to all the members of the
ensemble. The actors, along with the giant moon and stars, add to
the playful mood, for creative work must always be rooted in play.
And so, this season’s program cover is our attempt to conjure the
magic of this place, where we’ve been lucky enough to work and play
all these years.
Sam and Steve Gilliam
SLG DESIGN & CREATIVE TALENT
Cover Story
Written by Sam and Steve Gilliam, Muny scenic designers
