NICHOLAS THORNBURG
ABOUT
At the age of 22 I became an actor. I started in community theatre and quickly moved into semi-professional theatre, independent film and voice-over work. I was okay. During this time, particularly in community theatre, I had the opportunity to expose myself to the world of theatrical production. I fell in love with building sets and creating props, which I went on to do professionally. The ability to take inexpensive and commonly available materials, and turn them into fantastic and unusual pieces and installations (on a shoestring budget, no less) required a level of ingenuity that I found fascinating and compelling, and from that day on it was all I wanted to do.
...Until I tried my hand at designing those installations. Cue intro for my love affair with scenic design. I find myself tremendously attracted to and gratified by the endeavor of creating what is effectively a piece of functional installation art. What statements should it make about the themes of the play, and how should it make them? How will it fit in the space? What colors make the strongest statement? I get really jazzed thinking about things like that.
I've been working in theatre for over fifteen years now, and am available year-round as a freelance theatrical carpenter, technical director,
and scenic designer.
The considerations that make theatrical work so rewarding for me are the same ones I bring to my most recent endeavor: artisan furniture and custom appointments. The irony of theatre is that all the work that goes into it fulfills a goal that is ultimately fleeting; it isn't meant to last. However, a chair, table, shelf, et cetera is a thing that stays with you. You can admire it forever.
Another thing I really enjoy is working with people to figure out what they're thinking, and bringing my experience to realizing it for them.
My portfolio is continually expanding, and every item in it can be altered to suit your space and taste.
So if you have an idea for an original piece, or you see something on this site that you'd like a reproduction of for yourself, let's figure out how to make it yours!
Custom Appointments,Theatrical Scenic Design and Artisan Carpentry
(757) 613-8015 nicholascthornburg@gmail.com