The construction of Sense and Sensibility required a number of new techniques I had not had the chance to experience up until this point. First, the use of truss tracks for movement of large scenic pieces (the two-sided windows). Second, the construction of large semi-cylindrical columns that required rigidity and a light weight. 

We started this build with modifications to a pair of large bookshelves that were stored offsite. These bookshelves needed to be mobile in spite of being almost 400 lbs and over 12 feet tall. We used heavy duty casters to provide movement, and added fly weights to help with stability. We also added the crown and base molding.

Next we started construction of 8 columns that gradually got smaller as they went up. to accomplish this, we cut semicircles of different sizes and attached them to a slowly narrowing length of board. Then we stabled plexiglass to the face and sanded it in preparation for a muslin skin that would cover it.  

To cover the face of these columns with muslin, we applied a thick layer of paint over the column and then placed the muslin over it while it was wet, pressing all wrinkles out of the fabric. Once it was pressed to the column, we applied a secondary coat to the top to ensure the muslin was thoroughly soaked through and fastened to the sanded plexiglass.

Another fun part of the column build was using vacuform to construct crowns and bases for the columns. using this method, we could recreate realistic architecture that was both light and cheap. Once the columns were done, the four smaller ones were attached to the back of the bookshelves and the taller ones were stored for use on the far left and right sides of the stage. 

After the columns were done, we moved on to some welding jobs. First, we needed to add casters to a couch but could not damage the legs. we accomplished this by building custom frame that had angle iron exactly where the feet would set. Then we needed to alter the size of a lounge chair from storage. we removed the legs and backing from the original lounge chair and attached them to a custom frame that was hand welded to the correct size. Casters were added to the legs for mobility. Lastly, we needed to have a removable bed frame made. This was accomplished by welding large steel sleeves to the bed frame that would hold two smaller steel sleeves. the height of the headboard was set by building out the posts on either side. 

Lastly, we began construction on the window walls. These were two sided walls that needed to be highly movable. We modified the welding of some tall flats that we had in storage and attached them to pivoting tracks that we installed earlier. 

the large flats would prove challenging for changeovers, as they had to come down for every changeover, but watching them move around so quickly was worth the effort. The column creation was an especially fun part of building this show.