Stage Design for “Just Say Gay” (Single Set, Two-Act Production)
Setting: A converted storm shelter/garage in West Texas, cluttered but functional, serving as an emergency refuge during a tornado. The space reflects the personalities of JD and Irma, the aging conservative couple, with practicality at the forefront but hints of nostalgia and old-fashioned decor.
Layout & Key Elements:
UPSTAGE (U) – KITCHEN EXIT
A visible door or archway leading to the house. This serves as an escape route and a reminder of the world outside the storm.
A coffee station sits near the exit, a staple for JD and Irma, adding warmth to the otherwise tense environment.
UP LEFT (UL) – HATCH & STORAGE AREA
A hatch leading to an attic or extra storage (symbolic of hidden secrets and past baggage).
A mirror hangs nearby, allowing for comedic reflection moments, especially for the drag queens.
A bookcase with outdated titles, family Bibles, and old magazines.
CENTER STAGE – MAIN LIVING AREA
A love seat and JD’s chair (his throne, resistant to change).
A pile of clothes near the bookcase, adding to the lived-in feel.
The bunk bed unit serves as both seating and sleeping space, emphasizing the cramped, makeshift nature of the shelter.
UP RIGHT (UR) – BATHROOM UNIT
A small, enclosed bathroom for privacy.
This becomes a comedic hotspot as multiple characters fight for access throughout the play.
DOWN LEFT (DL) – STOOL & PERSONAL ITEMS
A stool for side conversations or intimate moments.
This area might serve as a dressing spot for Phoenix Fatale and Betty Bouquet.
DOWN RIGHT (DR) – COMEDIC & CHAOTIC ENTRY POINT
A makeshift pile of clothes, possibly costumes from the drag show, adding flair and potential for hilarious wardrobe changes.
Visual & Lighting Notes:
Warm tones for pre-storm coziness, shifting to dim and flickering lights as the storm worsens.
Shadows & Silhouettes through the mirror and hatch area for dramatic moments.
Use of space to highlight tension—characters crammed together, using levels (bunk beds, stools) to maximize physical comedy.
