The Fringe Files

Reflections on Blackhaven: A Set Never Publicly Seen

Building a stage set is always an enjoyable process—it’s where creativity meets craftsmanship. But it’s also expensive and demanding. For Blackhaven in 2020, we poured our efforts into designing a pop-up radio station, a unique and immersive setting that would have brought the suspenseful story to life.

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, neither the set nor the show would ever be presented publicly. It’s a bittersweet memory: the excitement of creating something special, tempered by the reality of a world turned upside down.

While Blackhaven didn’t make it to the stage, the passion and dedication behind the project remain an important part of our journey.

Blackhaven Set Photo 1 Above: Hand made lightbox with radio station logo

Unfortunately, we were only able to use it for one practise, however the combined lighting effects were fantastic. We were eager to show off some of the unique features that had been tucked away.

Blackhaven Set Photo 2 Above: Skeleton version of the set was used for a single rehearsal

The set was entirely adjustable and could be broken down into portions with the pull of a bolt, and the Z shape made it extremely stable, eliminating the need for extra supports.

Blackhaven Set Photo 3 Above: The popup set being built in the workshop

The set had a hidden feature: a handcrafted integrated special effects box that allowed the performers to control lights from the stage. The lighting effects box worked beautifully and would have resulted in some pretty spectacular visual moments.

Blackhaven Set Photo 4 Above: Integrated lighting which special effect triggers