Back to SDCF Masters of the Stage Homepage

Rare insights into the working process of America's most seminal directors and choreographers are the focus of "Masters of the Stage." This series features more than three decades of priceless One-on-One interviews and panel discussions with theatre's most distinguished luminaries. Listen to these never before broadcast programs and hear the story of the American theatre told by those who helped chart its course. The Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation brings you to this series through the collaborative efforts of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers and the American Theatre Wing.

Richard Foreman and Wilford Leach Get the Flash Player to see this player. With: Richard Foreman Wilford Leach James Furlong - Moderator SDCF's James Furlong sat down with two preeminent stage directors who also design, Richard Foreman and Wilford Leach, for a 90 minute discussion about navigating the often contentious relationship of collaboration. Sharing similar origins, both Foreman and Leach discuss how their affinity for designing sets came from a "do it yourself" mentality which developed from an early necessity of their productions. As they grew as artists the two began practicing different philosophies of design and collaboration; Leach crafting a set from the center outward to ensure it fits into any touring venue, while Foreman moves from a frame inward to give the actors a concrete foundation wherein the story can inhabit. Despite many differing philosophies of collaboration and design both agree that, for them, set design and stage direction are inextricably linked in their process of creating theatre. What follows is a conversation between two theatre artists who refuse to compartmentalize their work. They rather view themselves as artists endeavoring to make an entire object, as a result of which directing and designing follow as natural bi-products. Originally recorded - June 1, 1985 Running Time - 1:14:19 If you enjoyed this episode of SDCF Masters of The Stage you may want to: Subscribe to our podcasts