Hard Feelings and Zombie Shows: Set Designers Discuss the influences of Parenting and Family

Join us for an honest roundtable discussion with theatre designers Chen Wei-Liao, Collette Pollard, Lee Jellinek, Louisa Thompson, Mimi Lien, Yvonne Miranda, and Naomi Kasahara, hosted by Maureen Weiss and Sibyl Wickersheimer.

They share personal stories from gossiping in the theater with their kids to the challenges of balancing schedules during tech. They offer insights into various styles of integrating and navigating parenthood as professional designers. Some reflect on their upbringing, connecting aspects of their current practice with influences from their caregivers' careers and lifestyles.

Key Highlights:

Collette Pollard discusses the intersection of personal history and professional storytelling.

Lee Jellinek shares insights on re-entering the design world post-pandemic.

Louisa Thompson talks about the challenges of juggling theater, teaching, and parenting.

Yvonne Miranda highlights the unique dynamics of costume versus set design and the very real lack of support for caregivers built into the theatre systems.

Chen Wei-Liao reflects on family influences and the joy of creating and gives her “control group” perspective of why she chose not to have children and pursue this career.

Sibyl Wickersheimer shares anecdotal experiences of unexpected bringing her kids to tech rehearsal and sharing a moment with her son at a play.

Maureen Weiss shares advice for how to get through meltdowns and balance work and family.

Mimi Lien sheds light onto the lessons our children teach us and how things don’t always go as planned as a parent.

Edited and co-produced by Téa Chura

Music by Claire McKeown "Sarabande in D minor"

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