When one is going to see a ballet, there is a certain level of expectations; it’s almost like the crowd is the one who dictates what and how the show is going to look like. It’s even more true when we talk about such classics as Nutcracker and Raymonda.

But perhaps it’s even more true when we talk about Swan Lake. The choreography and music are such masterpieces that it seems to be wrong to even attempt to try to change them. The same is true about the set. Traditionally, Swan Lake has cut backdrops, trees, benches, and throne for the furniture, and everlasting staircase U.S.L. for the 1st act.

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My goal for the design was to keep the tradition but to try to see something new through materials and approaches, incorporate new elements. Even though I do use the same traditional pieces as trees or the 1st act staircase, I wanted to explore how those pieces can look different but still present realism and magical realism.

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Starting from the first day of my research, there were a couple of elements that caught my attention: butterfly wing structure in gothic architecture and tree shapes hanging above the path in the forest which ultimately form a similar structure. Trying to incorporate those elements, I reimagined what castle grounds might be as well as the castle itself. I wanted to show the verticality and height of the world without too many bulky bases which are usually required for tall scenery. Also, not having an opportunity for any treatment on the floor (it’s a grey Marley in my design), I wanted to compare and contrast it to an almost monochromatic color scheme of the set.