Cyndi Lauper

I developed several bold concepts for Cyndi Lauper's True Colors Tour. Director Rob Roth and I presented our initial color sketches to her, and while she appreciated them, she insisted, "They need to be a little f'd up like me." This challenge motivated me to push our ideas further.

At the time, Barack Obama was in his first year running for office. Cyndi clearly wanted the design to deliver a powerful political message honoring our great nation and the LGBTQIA+ community. The front-painted drop showcased a striking pop-art, dayglo-colored version of the Seal of the United States. I too the liberty of changing the colors in the shield to those of a rainbow!

The false proscenium was crafted as a deconstructed American flag in grayscale, allowing the scenery to transform in mood with the lighting. Upstage of the band, we featured the "Equality Wall," symbolizing every individual and their beliefs in our country. Cyndi wanted everyone in her audience to be represented in her show.

I envisioned Cyndi starting the performance as the flame atop the Statue of Liberty's torch. The torch creates the illusion of melting away to emphasize the urgency of Cyndi's message.

For the finale, True Colors, the deconstructed stars in the false proscenium transformed into brightly colored peace signs and flowers made with invisible UV paint. The word "Equality" boldly appeared in bright pink letters across the backdrop, ensuring everyone could see it. Unsurprisingly, she is so beloved; Cyndi Lauper is an unwavering champion for equality in the world. What a kind and compassionate performer.

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