Setting the Stage

"In his charming combination memoir and anecdotal set design textbook-cum-life primer, all laced with sly humor and the occasional witty barb, Hays opens our eyes to the magic and thought processes behind taking a bare stage and mystically converting it into just about anything."—Cathy Ritchie, Theater Jones

"Anyone, and I do mean anyone—actors, designers, writers, people in love with the art form—will find so much in this accessible, smart, and delightful book about the 'magic' of the theatre."—Joel Grey

"Thank God for David Hays. A true gentleman of the arts—and boy, is he funny in this book. He opens up the vault of his brilliant mind and heart and allows us to share with him great memories of the Golden Age of the arts. This book is full of his fascinating life and great contributions to scenic designs; his stories have great wit, style, and his heart and soul touched mine."—Chita Rivera

"Rejoice, theater, opera, and ballet fans! As you read this indefatigable 'Theater Hall of Famer's' wonder-full memories, you will be eavesdropping on giants of twentieth-century theater for whom the 'Envision and Design Award'–winning sets earn accolades. You will also marvel at the fact that for fifty years, the only sleep he ever needed was one short nap on top of a stepladder."—Peter Walker

"David Hays goes well beyond the measures of set design and straight into the inherent drama of theatrical life — the part not meant to be seen by audiences. This book, written for everyone interested in the work of the stage, offers the full promise of the phrase, 'Behind the scenes.'"—Lary Bloom