The Art of Stage Design
- Ann Palokaran
- Apr 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 11
Stage design plays such a huge part in how we experience a performance, even if we don’t always realise it. It is more than just a backdrop; it helps shape the energy in the room, guides the audience’s attention, and sets the emotional tone for everything that follows. The lighting, the structure, the way space is used—all of it works together to turn music or movement into something we don’t just hear or watch, but truly feel. It is that invisible layer of storytelling that pulls people in and makes a performance unforgettable. When it is done well, you might not be able to put your finger on why a show felt so powerful, but the design almost always has everything to do with it.
I have always been drawn to stage design that feels intentional and atmospheric, where every detail serves a purpose but nothing feels too forced or overdone. That is why I am especially inspired by the work of Jonny Kingsbury. His approach is clean and minimal, but never boring. There is a quiet drama in the way he uses space and structure, allowing the performance to breathe while still creating something visually striking. His designs feel balanced, architectural without being rigid, expressive without being chaotic. They give the artist room to move and connect, while also shaping the audience’s experience in a subtle but powerful way. Looking through his work always reminds me how much impact thoughtful design can have. It is not just about creating something beautiful, it is about building a space that feels right. Here are a few of my favourite stage designs from Jonny Kingsbury, each one showing how design can turn a performance into something you carry with you long after it ends.
