The cover of Stage Directions highlight the set design work of Britton Mauk and Laura Valenti for I Am My Own Wife, which was recently at the Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, CT from February 5 to March 1, 2020.
Laura writes, "Being the assistant set designer for this production was one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had in theatre. Firstly, I learned so much about the design process by assisting set designer, Britton Mauk. I met Britton while attending the University of Pittsburgh and he instantly became a mentor to me. Seeing his process first-hand and getting to help on projects made me more informed on what the design process looks like at a regional level. Secondly, this show is so important for today. When this show was originally produced over ten years ago, the dialogue and discussion of trans identities was very different. During this rehearsal process, the script was altered and scenes were adjusted with the director, playwright and overall team to better and further represent trans people and their lives. It was incredible to see first hand how involved and collaborative the whole team was to bring Charolette von Malsdolf’s identity and story to life in its second/revival production."