Business Details
36 Years
experience
Theatre Set & Costume Design Experts in Stoke-on-Trent
Established in 1990, John Brooking has built a reputation for excellence in theatre and performing arts design. Our expertise spans set, prop, and costume creation, delivering tailored solutions for projects of all scales. Based in Stoke-on-Trent, we combine creative ingenuity with practical execution, ensuring every client's vision is realised within their budget and timeline. Our portfolio showcases diverse productions, from intimate studio performances to large-scale national tours, reflecting our adaptability and technical proficiency. With decades of experience, we maintain a client-centric approach, prioritising flexibility and collaboration throughout the design process.Our full-service offeringfrom concept to constructionensures seamless project delivery, supported by a network of skilled artisans. Recognised for award-winning work with institutions like Lichfield Garrick Theatre, we remain committed to pushing creative boundaries while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship. Our team's deep industry knowledge and dedication to innovation have solidified our position as trusted partners in the performing arts sector.
Services
Set Design
Prop Creation
Costume Design
Production Design
Theatre Consultancy
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in theatre design since 1990
- Offer full-service design and construction capabilities
- Specialise in adaptable solutions for diverse project scales
- Maintain direct client collaboration throughout the creative process
- Proven track record with prestigious venues like Lichfield Garrick Theatre
What people say
Impressively designed set
Convincing set provides ideal backdrop
Fantastic lighting, creative staging
Outstanding performance
Perfect verbal sparring partner
Services
Set Design
Our set design service creates immersive theatrical environments tailored to production requirements. We produce detailed architectural drawings and scale models, ensuring spatial efficiency and visual impact. With expertise in period-specific and contemporary designs, we collaborate closely with directors to realise artistic visions while maintaining practical construction parameters.
Prop Creation
We design and manufacture custom props that enhance narrative authenticity and actor interaction. Our workshop produces durable, lightweight components suitable for touring productions. Each piece undergoes rigorous safety checks while maintaining historical accuracy or stylistic requirements as needed for diverse theatrical genres.
Costume Design
Our costume design service combines aesthetic creativity with functional practicality. We create detailed character wardrobes, considering movement requirements and quick-change mechanisms. The process includes fabric sampling, colour palettes, and accessories coordination to ensure cohesive visual storytelling across different performance contexts.
Production Design
We offer comprehensive production design oversight, integrating set, lighting, and costume elements into unified visual narratives. This service includes technical drawings, material specifications, and coordination with lighting designers. Our approach ensures consistency across all design aspects while meeting budgetary and scheduling constraints.
Theatre Consultancy
Our consultancy service provides expert guidance on theatre design challenges. We advise on spatial optimisation, budget allocation, and technical feasibility assessments. Drawing from decades of experience, we help clients navigate design decisions while maintaining artistic integrity and practical production requirements.
People
John Brooking
Designer
With over 30 years' experience in theatre design, John Brooking has created award-winning sets and costumes for national touring productions. His expertise spans classical and contemporary works, with a particular focus on transforming limited spaces into dynamic performance environments through innovative design solutions.
Questions
What theatre design services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive set design, prop creation, costume design, and production design services for theatre and performing arts productions.
How do you work with clients during the design process?
We use collaborative consultations to understand creative visions, followed by detailed concept development and technical implementation tailored to production requirements.
Do you work with regional theatre companies?
Yes, we regularly collaborate with venues across the UK including Lichfield Garrick Theatre and Stafford Festival Shakespeare Company.
Can you accommodate different budget sizes?
We deliver solutions across all budget ranges, from small-scale studio productions to large touring shows, maintaining quality and creativity.
How can I view examples of your work?
Our portfolio showcases recent productions with detailed project descriptions and photographs, accessible through our website.
What makes your theatre designs unique?
Our designs combine practical functionality with artistic innovation, creating adaptable spaces that enhance storytelling while meeting technical production needs.
