Discover David Korins\’ \’Stages of Imagination\’ at the Museum of Broadway

David Korins Unveils “Stages of Imagination” at The Museum of Broadway

Overview
Tony‑nominated set designer and creative director David Korins has launched an immersive exhibit called Stages of Imagination that celebrates visionary storytelling across Broadway’s history.

Key Highlights

• Set Design Mastery – Korins’s meticulous construction of dynamic stage environments showcases his Tony‑winning aesthetic.
• Creative Leadership – As creative director, Korins guides the exhibit’s narrative cohesion, infusing collective Broadway legacy.
• Visitor Experience – Visitors explore intricate set pieces that reflect the evolution of Broadway’s imagination.

Impact on Broadway

Korins’s exhibit not only displays his design brilliance but also reinforces the cultural dialogue that shapes contemporary Broadway productions.

Background on his ‘Stages of Imagination’ exhibit

Korins’ Exhibit: A Journey into Broadway’s Creative Core

Immersion Through Set Models and Original Notes

• Iconic Broadway Set Replicas showcase design precision.
• Hamilton Annotated Notes (the “Hamilton Mixtape”) highlight narrative nuance.
• Debut Sketch for Dear Evan Hansen offers early design insight.

Highlights of Five Landmark Productions

• Hamilton celebrates a decade of success.
• Beetlejuice returns to Broadway this fall.
• Dear Evan Hansen continues its compelling story.
• The Who’s Tommy showcases rock theatrical artistry.
• Here Lies Love redefines musical storytelling.

Creator’s Perspective on Set Design

“It truly celebrates the process,”

“Set design mirrors everything we do: writing, designing, and re-designing… trial and error is the backbone.”

He added, “I aim to reveal the behind-the-scenes of iconic productions.”

Korins on his exhibit

About the New Show‑Space Experience

Korins shared that the exhibit began in Tucson, Arizona last year, where the local museum specializes in miniature‑scale productions. “We were fortunate enough to have it transferred to New York,” he announced.

A Glimpse Into the Broadway Conversation

• Unexpected Setting: “It’s such a strange experience” he reflected, echoing the surreal feel of housing the collection in the Museum of Broadway.
• Design Tools, Not Just Blueprints: The array of models paired with rehearsal materials offered concrete communication for writers, directors, choreographers, and performers.
• Home‑Back Feel: “To have all of the shows be within a mile of where they played on Broadway … it feels like bringing it back home,” he noted.

From the Paper‑To‑Stage Handbook to a Real‑Life Photo Stop

For a limited tenure, visitors will journey from the “Undead” design handbook of Beetlejuice to an on‑site photo opportunity on a full‑size replica of his iconic Beetlejuice couch.

Why This Show Matters

Korins explained, “It’s not just a personal highlight; it’s a tribute to the brilliant craftspeople, creatives, and collaborators in my studio.” The presentation aligns with the museum’s mission to pull back the curtain on show creation, spotlighting the often‑unseen, messy, but magical journey that thrives on collaboration.

Heart of the Theater Capital

“I’m honored to share this work, if only briefly, in the heart of the theater capital of the world, in the city that continues to inspire us all,” he added, closing the narrative.

Greatest lesson that the entertainment industry has taught him

David Korins on the Power of Collaboration

“No one creates a set alone,” Korins explained, emphasizing that set design is a collective effort.

Collective Decision-Making

• “Thousands of decisions shape a single set.”
• “A single piece of theater never comes from one person.”

Celebrating Community Through Exhibits

Korins expressed pride in an exhibit that showcases the entire community.

“This exhibition really amplifies a whole community,” he said, underscoring the shared experience.

Numbers Reflecting Community Effort

• “Thousands of individuals contributed to five shows.”
• “Our work thrives when we unite as one group.”

Proudest moments in this industry

Celebrating a Community‑Driven Legacy

When asked about the moments that most resonate with his career, he emphasized that the true triumph lies in the collective effort of his studio.

Each day, he collaborates with a dedicated team, and the credit given to every contributor reflects the depth of that partnership.

Documenting Every Contributor

• The most extensive roster is the one that lists every individual who has worked within his studio across the five exhibits that spanned from 12 to 15 years.
• This extensive acknowledgment showcases the breadth of talent that has shaped those long‑lasting shows.

A Proud Tribute

“All names that contributed to those series are captured in that list, and that stands as the pinnacle of pride,” he noted.

The studio was built not only to serve as an artistic expression but also to empower each person who helped bring the exhibits to life, making the collaboration a truly special milestone.

Stage of his life

Life Chapter Title

Korins’ Sweet Laugh

• Announcement: Stages of Imagination, Part II
• Emotion: Sweet laugh
• Context: Current chapter of life

Future plans

Korins Molds Future Aspirations

First Insight

“My path is simple—double effort, sharper output.” Korins disclosed, framing a concise roadmap that marries persistence with quality.

Step One: Design Identity

Korins reflected, “I’m only now stepping fully into my own silhouette as a designer and a creative force.” He is perhaps entering a new design chapter where the personal narrative takes precedence.

Beginning the Truth

He elaborated, “I now truly begin to understand my craft; that understanding is ongoing.” His statement charts a future defined by continual learning and creative evolution.

Advice for hopefuls

Communication Is Key to a Career in Entertainment

For those aiming to enter the entertainment field professionally, the expert emphasized that success hinges on effective communication.

Visual, Verbal, and Creative Dialogue

• Master visual storytelling through imagery and design.
• Speak clearly and convincingly in verbal presentations.
• Reach a consensus with creative teams, ensuring everyone supports your vision.

Building Consensus

“You need to come to a consensus with a creative team, and everyone must get behind your ideas to make them possible,” the advisor underscored. “Clear communication is essential to that process,” he added.

Success

David Korins on the Meaning of Success

Success for Korins is straightforward: If his closest collaborators deem the work “good,” that alone represents achievement.

He strives to surround himself with capable peers while holding himself to an elevated standard. “If we consider it excellent, that would be success,” he explained.

Korins added a personal layer: “If my children can visit and appreciate the creation, that doubles the success.”

Key Points

• Collaborator approval is the primary marker of success.
• Maintaining a high personal bar ensures quality.
• Engaging his kids provides an extra measure of triumph.