CONCEPT

Sherwood Theatre is a permanent, open-air amphitheater nestled deep within the forest -- a cultural landmark where the local community gathers to witness grand (or not-so-grand) performances under the canopy of the woods. The design blends the elegance of the performing arts with a rugged, natural aesthetic.

STAGE MECHANICS

The theatre is packed with functional features designed to bring a performance to life:

The Stage: The performance space is framed by a large, flowing white curtain built with curved slopes and tiles to mimic heavy fabric. Hidden within the stage ceiling is a placeholder for a 1x8 LED light brick, specifically positioned to illuminate the backdrop and provide a warm glow during night-time shows.
Functional Pulleys: Adding to the playability, both the flying Cupid and the scenic cloud are suspended from fully functional pulley systems, allowing the stagehands to move them during the performance.
Backstage & Props: Behind the scenes, a selection of props and costumes are hung and ready for the next act, providing a glimpse into the production's depth.
Forced Perspective Backdrop: The stage uses a layered building technique to create a scenic backdrop of rolling hills and a rising sun.

GROUNDS & ATMOSPHERE

The area surrounding the stage is as detailed as the performance itself:

Enclosed Seating: The audience area is defined by an intricate iron fence that wraps around the back side, separating the refined theatre space from the wild forest.
The Pillory: To the side stands a pillory – unoccupied for now, but with handcuffs at the ready – serving as a humorous deterrent for any particularly harsh critics.
Marketplace & Refreshments: A vendor stall is situated on the edge of the grounds, offering concessions (and rotten tomatoes) to theater-goers.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Minifigures: 6 (The Actor, the Actress, the Flying Cupid, a Vendor, and two Theatre-goers).
Parts: 1,303
Key Features: Functional stage, gnarled trees & greenery, concession vendor, pillory, detailed base.
Landscape: Features an intricate forest floor with log-stump seating and custom-built trees and greenery.

INSPIRATION

I drew inspiration from the idea of "Shakespeare in the Park," imagining a permanent wooden structure that has stood for generations. The goal was to create a build that celebrates community and creativity – utilizing some of my favorite design principles to vibrant, festive energy of the Sherwood Theatre.