The stage sets the scene. The small details in clothing, furniture, and little knick-knacks are an audience’s hints into the character’s personality or what is about to play on. Despite its cruciality, the power of these artistic decisions is often overlooked, leading to a subpar production – something unfamiliar to Christian Fleming.
Based in Manhattan, New York, Christian Fleming is a set and costume designer ready to take Broadway by storm. With a background in Directing, and an MFA in Scenic Design from the esteemed Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama, Christian is a force to be reckoned with – hosting the precision and brilliance natural to a master storyteller.
“With every production, I invent storytelling solutions that create context, establish focus, and activate the audience’s imagination,” he shares. “I’m excited by adventurous work that illuminates new perspectives on iconic pieces and new work that reveals more about our world and the human condition.”
Captivating the audience in the magic of the play, Christian’s signature excellence has recently accompanied the productions: “Afterwards: Mozart’s Idomeneo Reimagined,” “The Light in the Piazza,” “Rusalka,” and, his latest work, “A Little Night Music” for the Opera America Robert L.B. Tobin Director-Designer Prize.
The designer’s work in “The Light in the Piazza” staged in Carnegie Mellon has catapulted him into recognition. His work gained attention at the Design Showcase West and captivated those at the USITT (United States Institute for Theater Technology, Inc.) Virtually Anywhere 2021 conference where he was awarded the 2021 USITT Scene Design Award sponsored by Rose Brand. USITT is known for its prestigious awards and meticulous process in choosing a promising young designer to support and forward in the industry. It’s safe to say that those who had witnessed his laudable designs weren’t surprised.
“Christian has every asset: attention to detail, total calm in a storm, openness to ideas far afield but health to explore, and a strong sense of what is entertaining and moving,” Melissa Errico, the Tony-nominated Broadway actress, states.
Designer Anne Mundell only augments this glowing review of his talent. “Christian has my strongest endorsement as a designer and artist/citizen; he’s accomplished across the board from skills to ideas to realization. His work unquestionably rivals that of the most skilled and celebrated professionals.”
With over a decade of experience, from an award-winning director to award-winning designer, Christian Fleming is sure to be a sought-after character in the industry – a talent able to grasp directors’ visions and realize it to perfection.
His extensive portfolio and unique eye for detail have led him to the helm of successful productions. As Broadway’s marquees come back to life after the pandemic caused the industry to go dark, Christian is preparing to set the stage for deafening applause and a standing ovation.
On his USITT Scene Design Award win, he says, “I am truly honored that USITT celebrates my work with this award and I view this recognition as the exciting testament to what will come as we return to producing theater and being able to gather as an audience again.”
Prepare to be entranced by the magic of brilliant storytelling and browse through Christian Fleming’s portfolio. See why his design for “The Light in the Piazza” garnered this attention and stay updated on the not-to-be missed new productions in development through Instagram or the designer’s official website.
