The A list lifestyle and secrets that dog celebrities will be exposed when The Little Dog Laughed takes centre stage in all its naked glory, at the Herald Theatre in Auckland from October 24. The play satirises celebrities and explores humanity through the universal experiences of love, identity and image.

Designer John Verryt says the set design at the Herald Theatre will be 'light, flash, with a bed centre stage.' He worked with director Shane Bosher and designers Elizabeth Whiting, Jeremy Fern and Andrew McMillan for Silo Theatre's production of Douglas Carter Beane's play.The A list lifestyle and secrets that dog celebrities will be exposed when The Little Dog Laughed takes centre stage in all its naked glory, at the Herald Theatre in Auckland from October 24. The play satirises celebrities and explores humanity through the universal experiences of love, identity and image.

Designer John Verryt says the set design at the Herald Theatre will be 'light, flash, with a bed centre stage.' He worked with director Shane Bosher and designers Elizabeth Whiting, Jeremy Fern and Andrew McMillan for Silo Theatre's production of Douglas Carter Beane's play.During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?
Any time of day is good for me, I tend to do my organizing stuff in the mornings and more creative stuff afternoon.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
Someone I don't really know described my work as 'considered' I chose to take that as a compliment. I would say 'organic'.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
Packing the set in to the venue is pretty good

How does your environment affect your work?
It completely affects me.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
First the big picture, and then the details. The big picture bit is more fun

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?
Stay healthy, build up stamina, it's hard work.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
I currently have 'Tent' With Michael Parmenter, 'Tama Ma' with Tai and Tane, and 'Little Dog Laughed' with Silo Theatre on.

Who or what has inspired you recently?
See above

What can you tell us about the set design for The Little Dog Laughed?
It's in the Herald Theatre which is always fun. It's light, flash, and there is a bed centre stage.

What were some and the challenges and rewards of designing this set?
Having a bed centre stage.

Who do you work with to come up with the set design?
The Director and the Lighting Designer mostly and also with the Costume Designer

What advice can you give to aspiring set designers?
Hang around be a nuisance

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
I did I chose the performing arts

What place is always with you, wherever you go?
Home

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?
I have and old stereo and my desk is right in front of it like 300 mm away at head level! Excellent

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A kite

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?
'Hey nobody died, right!? '

What's great about today?
Still have 4 days before its Saturday

What's your big idea for 2009?
To take a break in Greece

Silo Theatre presents the NZ Premiere of Douglas Carter Beane's
The Little Dog Laughed

Having begun its theatrical life at New York's Second Stage Theatre and boasting a cast such as Tom Everett Scott, Julie White and Johnny Galecki, Beane's play was instantly sold out, transferring to Broadway, where it received a Tony Award for "Best Play" and "Best Performance by a Leading Actress".

The Little Dog Laughed will see the welcome return of Paolo Rotondo to Silo Theatre. Last year Rotondo toured the country, in the critically acclaimed Strange Resting Places, as well as writing and producing the short film Dead Letters. The short film won him a prestigious scholarship in Italy to work on a film in the Italian Film Festival. He is joined by Silo Theatre favourites Alison Bruce (Some Girls; The Mercy Seat), Charlie McDermott (The Threepenny Opera; Mr Marmalade) and Sophie Henderson (The Ensemble Project; Milk).

Written by Douglas Carter Beane
Directed by Shane Bosher
Designed by John Verryt, Elizabeth Whiting, Jeremy Fern & Andrew McMillan

October 24th - November 15th 2008, Herald Theatre, THE EDGE ®
Monday and Tuesday at 7pm; Wednesday through Saturday at 8pm
Bookings through THE EDGE ticketing on 09 357 3355 or www.the-edge.co.nz
Tickets: $20-35

Contains Nudity, Ribald Humour and Scandal-Du-Jour

21/10/08