American Idiot

Creative Team

 

Music   by Green Day / Lyrics by Billie Joe Armstrong / Book by Billie Joe Armstrong & Michael Mayer / Directed by Andrew Palermo / Music Direction by Lex Leigh / Choreography by Allison Eversol / Scenic Design by Brandon PT Davis / Costume Design by Jennifer Clark / Lighting Design by David Hernandez / Sound Design by Jordan Tani / Projection Design by Elizabeth Barrett / University of California, Irvine Claire Trevor Theatre/ 2018

Abstract

Explore the high-energy rock musical American Idiot, which brings Green Day's iconic 2005 punk rock album to life on stage. This visually stunning production follows the lives of three restless young men—Johnny, Tunny, and Will—as they seek to escape their mundane suburban existence. Their separate journeys through the city, the army, and back home illuminate the struggle between rage and love, a defining conflict for their generation.

My scenic design for American Idiot captures the raw intensity of the musical's themes and music. Utilizing the stark, unadorned nature of concrete structures, I effectively bridge the urban and suburban settings depicted in the show. This choice highlights the oppressive environments the characters wish to escape and is a constant reminder of the familiar world they are ultimately seeking to understand and redefine.

The design reflects the overarching narrative of self-discovery, emphasizing the tension between what the characters know and what they yearn to uncover. The industrial and minimalist elements of the set amplify the gritty reality of their experiences while allowing the emotional depth of their journey to resonate powerfully with the audience. Through this design, I aim to create an immersive environment that vividly brings the story of American Idiot to life, resonating deeply with themes of identity, rebellion, and transformation.