Don Giovanni Staging Project

This production of Don Giovanni will highlight the destructiveness of misogyny, keep the reality of sexual violence at the forefront of discussion, and showcase the potential of empowered women to push back against oppression and violence.
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Setting
Timeline: Current Day

​Reasoning: ​It is effective as it is more relatable and specifically highlights the current moral issues I have outlined in my goals. ​
Location: Washington, D.C.

​Reasoning: ​It is factual to say that political power has influenced acceptance of behavior otherwise considered immoral or unethical. Setting this opera in Washington D.C. highlights that acceptance and challenges it. 
It also alludes to the fact that while some of these things may happen in high-power and politically influential circles, this is also a place that has the power to make changes.
Stage Design and Inspirations for Stage Elements
SHIFTING STAGE: I was inspired by the rotational stage seen below, which was used in the Metropolitan Opera’s 2010 production of Carmen. In Carmen, two rotational circles (one curved wall on each rotational circle) were used which allowed for a variety of configurations, including allowing for the center of the set to be used. 

I will include a large balcony for use in interior and exterior scenes. I found examples of large interior balconies in ballrooms as well as exterior balconies.

The exterior balcony was inspired by the Rose Garden at the White House.1 However, the balcony on our stage will not be identifiable as such. I am directing commentary at the political environment in general, not related to the limited people that would be associated with the White House.

Stage Elements

A picture of the Capitol Dome3 on fabric above the rotational set. It will be visible during all the exterior scenes, reminding us of the city in which this is taking place.

During interior scenes in Don Giovanni's house, an additional panel will be lowered in front of the Capitol Dome panel.

One of the rotating circles will contain a curved and elevated balcony.

The outer ring contains a wall with attached trees and shrubbery. 

The inner ring contains an elevated balcony with columns underneath.

The three combinations shown above are:

Far left: public outdoor area with the balcony above and in front of the wall.
To be used as an outdoor, public setting. Examples of scenes that take place here are:
  • When Leporello and Don Giovanni first see Donna Elvira
  • Public area where we first meet Zerlina and Masetto

Middle: interior of Don Giovanni's house with the wall in back, the balcony creating a dimensional element in the middle.
Other factors:
  • The space in front of the balcony and columns will be used as an extension of the room.
  • Table and benches will be brought in as well.

Far right: the wall with trees and plants plus the elevated balcony which is visible above the wall
  •  To be used in the first scene with Donna Anna and Don Giovanni

1Jonathan Lemire, “Spruced-Up White House Rose Garden Set for First Lady Speech”, Associated Press, August 22, 2020, accessed April 22, 2021, https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2020-08-22/spruced-up-white-house-rose-garden-set-for-first-lady-speech.

2“US Capitol Building Vector”, accessed April 20, 2021, https://publicdomainvectors.org/en/freeclipart/US-Capitol-Building-Vector/1852.html.