Join us at the Hamon Arts Library to raise the curtain on “I AM THE SPACE WHERE I AM with John Arnone,” an exhibition celebrating the illustrious career of Tony Award Winning Set Designer and SMU alumnus, John Arnone. Offering a behind-the-scenes look at the decades of creativity sparked by Arnone where his versatile designs for productions are put into a new type of spotlight.
From his first groundbreaking production, “Vanities” in 1976, to his celebrated Broadway designs, Arnone has continued to push the boundaries of traditional stage aesthetics. This exhibition captures his evolution from his early days with the Lion Theatre Company in New York to his work on productions such as “The Who’s Tommy.” His set designs for this particular production not only earned him a Tony Award, but also helped to redefine immersive stage environments for a contemporary audience.
“I AM THE SPACE WHERE I AM” goes beyond a simple display of set pieces, exploring the intricate relationship between the physical spaces Arnone designed and the narrative spaces they helped to create. This exhibition shows how Arnone’s sets are not just scenic backgrounds, but real actors with their dialogue, influencing how audiences interact with and experience theatrical performances. Each set piece, whether from his famous or lesser- known works, is a reflection of his mastery in turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary.
This exhibition features an extensive array of Arnone’s works, including scale models, original sketches, and hand drafts of his set designs to keep a record of his creative process and artistic evolution. What’s more, is that from his award-winning set design of “The Who’s Tommy” this exhibit will be displaying Arnone’s Tony Award alongside the pinball machine featured in the production. Together these elements collectively highlight his skill in manipulating space and structure, inviting you to experience the depth and complexity of his designs.
As an alumnus of SMU, Arnone’s connection to Dallas turns this exhibition into a celebratory homecoming of his honors. More importantly, it stands as a source of inspiration for current students, aspiring designers, and theater enthusiasts, providing a special opportunity to see inside the mind of a set designer who’s influenced the visual aspects of theatre for over four decades. Arnone will be making a homecoming himself to his alma mater, as he will be a host at the Friends of SMU Libraries’ Tables of Content dinner on March 29. Arnone will be speaking on his life in theatre, including his successes on Broadway.
Opening to the public on March 27, “I AM THE SPACE WHERE I AM with John Arnone” promises an enticing exploration of the stage environment as defined by Arnone’s visionary work. A must-see for art and theater lovers, this exhibition showcases the transformative power of set design through the lens of a master craftsman. Only here can you experience firsthand just how Arnone’s innovative designs continue to hold your attention even after the curtain falls.
This piece was written by SMU senior Fred Wikelski. Fred studies Art History and serves as an intern in the Hawn Gallery this semester, where he assists with the exhibition.