BACKSTAGE PASS: Designing Marcel on the Train

Backstage Pass is a special Broadway Breakdown mini-series taking listeners behind the curtain of the Off-Broadway production Marcel on the Train at Classic Stage Company. Across the series, host Matt Koplik sits down with the artists shaping the production—from producers and writers to the creative team building the world of the show. Each episode explores a different aspect of the theatrical process, offering a rare inside look at how a new play comes to life.The GuestsThis episode focuses on the designers and movement team responsible for bringing Marcel on the Train to the stage. Matt speaks with movement consultant Lorenzo Pisoni, lighting designer Brandon Stirling Baker, costume designer Sarah Laux, and sound designer Jill B.C. Du Boff. Together they break down how movement, light, costumes, and sound help tell the story of Marcel Marceau guiding Jewish children to safety during World War II—and how each discipline collaborates to create a unified theatrical language.Important LinkLorenzo Pisoni: WebsiteBrandon Stirling Baker: Website (& NYC Ballet)Jill BC Du Boff: David Geffen Drama SchoolSarah Laux: WebsiteTime Stamps01:35 – Movement consultant Lorenzo Pisoni on mime, physical storytelling, and shaping the actors’ movement vocabulary 15:20 – Lighting designer Brandon Stirling Baker on designing atmosphere and visual storytelling through light 33:15 – Sound designer Jill B.C. Du Boff on building the sonic world of the production 34:00 – What sound designers actually do: systems, effects, and shaping audience experience 52:37 – Costume designer Sarah Laux on collaboration with makeup and practical storytelling through costume This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com