When I was ten years old I did my end of term ‘special project’ on the history of theatre and backstage workings. Then during my GCSE years I applied to do work experience at our local theatre and subsequently worked backstage as a stage hand for Christmas Pantomimes and summer performances. So surfice to say I’ve always been interested in the backstage workings of theatre (you can read more of my dream of becoming a theatre set designer in the Living Rooms chapter (p.128) in the Bright.Bazaar book). With that in mind it will come as no surprise to read that I was delighted when Keith and Mark, the duo behind British design brand Mini Moderns, told me that their new collection was inspired by a backstage tour of the National Theatre in London.
About three years ago I, too, went on a backstage tour of the theatre and remember feeling captivated by the vast array of props, costumes and technical workings behind the scenes. I’m so inspired by how the Mini Moderns chaps have translated their similar inspirations into such a cheerful, vibrant and intriguing collection of homewares. Inspired particularly by the props they saw from iconic National Theatre productions – One man, Two Guvnors, Pravda, An Inspector Calls, Macbeth – the collection, available this autumn through the National Theatre Shop, includes cushions, coasters, tote bags, stationery and more. I love how they didn’t choose the most iconic prop for each production, instead picking items that although heavily related to their given show, aren’t so obvious that you could instantly work it out without having seen the production. Personally I love the lightbulb cushion – what’s catching your eye? Congratulations, Mini Mods guys, on another creative and original collection!
8 Comments
Clever idea for a range…the Goose for War Horse is genius.
@RJ – Isn’t it brilliant?! A sure way to raise a smile for those that have seen the show!
I find the workings of a theatre fascinating also. Thanks for the intro to these new pieces and to Mini Moderns.
@Susan – My pleasure, their work is need-to-know stuff! 🙂
Knowing the story behind just makes a collection so much more attractive. I think I like best the designs where you see all the props together and do much more understand what the design is about Happy weekend, Will! xo
@Gudy – I agree, it’s so much more rewarding to know the inspirations and providence of a collection. Have a great one, Gudy! x
Thanks Will – so glad you like it! We are really pleased with the results!
@Keith – My pleasure! 🙂