Model Box
A Model Box is a miniature version of a theater stage that stage designers use to plan and visualize how a show will look. Think of it like a dollhouse version of the theater stage, typically built to scale (usually 1:25 or 1:50). Set designers use these small-scale models to experiment with different layouts, test how scenery will move, and show directors and producers their ideas before building the full-size set. This helps everyone involved in the production understand how the final stage will look and work, saving time and money by catching potential problems early.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Model Box presentations for five major theater productions
Developed Model Box and technical drawings for national touring productions
Used Model Box and Scale Model techniques to present set designs to production teams
Built precise Theater Model and Model Box designs for Broadway-scale productions
Typical job title: "Set Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Set Designers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage the budget constraints while creating detailed model boxes for large productions?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss their experience in cost estimation, material selection, and how they balance creative vision with practical budget limitations. They should mention experience managing teams and coordinating with other departments.
Q: Tell me about a challenging model box project and how you solved unexpected problems.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving abilities, and experience with complex productions. They should explain how they handled changes requested by directors and producers.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What scale do you typically use for model boxes and why?
Expected Answer: They should explain common theater scales (like 1:25 or 1:50) and why different scales might be chosen for different projects. They should understand how scale affects detail level and presentation.
Q: How do you demonstrate scene changes in your model box?
Expected Answer: Should describe methods for showing multiple scenes, moving parts, and how they communicate scene transitions to the production team. Should mention documentation and technical drawings.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What materials do you prefer to use when creating model boxes?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic model-making materials (like foam board, balsa wood, card) and explain why certain materials are chosen for different elements.
Q: How do you ensure your model box accurately represents the actual stage space?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of measuring, scaling, and basic math needed to convert real stage dimensions to model size.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic model making techniques
- Understanding of scale and measurement
- Knowledge of common materials
- Basic technical drawing skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced model construction
- Ability to show complex scene changes
- Computer-aided design basics
- Budget management
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Team leadership
- Complex production experience
- Advanced problem-solving skills
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of scale measurements
- Lack of knowledge about basic stage terminology
- No experience with technical drawings
- Unable to explain how to demonstrate scene changes in models
- No portfolio of previous work
