How to Create “Nightclub Nirvana” on Broadway

Creating “Nightclub Nirvana” on Broadway involves crafting an unforgettable experience that transports audiences to a glamorous world filled with music and nostalgia. In this insightful exploration led by renowned set designer Derek McLane, we delve into the artistry behind two exciting Broadway musicals: Just In Time and Death Becomes Her, both of which showcase his remarkable talent for creating captivating environments.

Derek McLane is no stranger to the spotlight, having contributed his design skills to various high-profile events, including multiple Academy Awards and Met Gala extravaganzas. His innovative approach is now showcased in the current Broadway season, where both Just In Time, a biographical musical about Bobby Darin, and Death Becomes Her, based on the cult classic film, are garnering critical acclaim, each earning him Tony nominations for Scenic Design.

Just In Time invites the audience to experience the life of Bobby Darin, portrayed by Jonathan Groff. Set in the round at the Circle in the Square theater, this production whisks viewers away from the Copacabana nightclub to the charming shores of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, including backstage glimpses of the Ed Sullivan Show. This musical seeks to embody the essence of a vibrant nightclub environment—a true “nightclub Nirvana”—while providing a heartfelt narrative.

On the other hand, Death Becomes Her diverges in tone and style with its campy storyline, featuring women who acquire a magical potion for eternal youth, albeit at a significant cost. This production embraces a bold visual aesthetic, complete with dynamic, oversized sets and special effects that blur the line between reality and the supernatural.

In an exclusive conversation with McLane ahead of the Tony Awards, he elaborated on the creative processes behind both musicals.

Working with Complex Themes in Set Design

McLane’s journey with Death Becomes Her began three years prior, emphasizing the importance of preliminary stages that culminate in live performance. While Death Becomes Her thrives on over-the-top visuals and grandiosity, Just In Time requires an intricately composed yet understated design approach that conveys a sense of intimacy.

The set design for Death Becomes Her was purposefully crafted to feel "elegant-creepy-gothic," reflecting the themes of defying death. Inspired by gothic architecture that echoes the hidden spaces of cathedrals, McLane ingeniously mixed historical elements with cinematic flair to create a dramatic backdrop that encapsulates the ethos of the story.

One standout feature is Viola’s space, where the potion for eternal youth is housed. Here, gothic columns create a maze-like effect, enhancing the atmosphere of mystique. The seamless integration of real columns with digital backdrops exemplifies advanced design techniques and reflects McLane’s commitment to creating depth and complexity in his scenes.

Navigating Smaller Spaces with Creative Constraints

In contrast, Just In Time presents a unique challenge with its confined setting. McLane embraced the constraints of the Circle in the Square theater by employing efficiency and creativity to convey the story’s essence. Unlike traditional theatrical productions that rely heavily on elaborate settings, this piece relies on the actors’ performance as a storytelling device, allowing for minimalistic yet impactful gestures that suggest various locations.

McLane characterizes the nightclub setting as “swank,” akin to the golden era of leisure and entertainment. Through a unique lens, he reflects Bobby Darin’s life and dreams, seeking to craft the Copacabana not as it was, but as it resided in the imagination of those who revered it. Here, “nightclub Nirvana” captured in bright colors and artful design creates a blend between reality and fantasy, allowing the audience to revel in the glory of the bygone era.

The Essence of Ambiance

In both productions, the ambiance is vital for immersing the audience. The struggle between the authentic experience and idealized escapism showcases McLane’s remarkable vision for not just a set, but an entire world that comes alive with each performance. With each element—from lighting cues to spatial arrangements—he skillfully opens a portal into a dimension where music and storytelling reign supreme.

As The Tony Awards approach, McLane reflects on his journey, noting how both productions have molded his artistic vision while offering opportunities for innovation. Each show, while unique, highlights distinct aspects of the theatrical experience: high camp in one, emotional reverie in the other.

Ultimately, creating “nightclub Nirvana” is more than design; it is an intricate blend of vision, nostalgia, and a touch of fantasy. Audience members are invited to step beyond the ordinary and into an exhilarating world where every note sung and every story told resonates deeply.

Broadway continues to evolve, and with talents like Derek McLane at the helm, the future promises to be vibrant with creativity, ambition, and inspiration. In a realm where dreams come alive on stage, the essence of what it means to experience true “nightclub Nirvana” transforms into an unforgettable reality for all who dare to indulge in its magic.

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