Friends! the Musical Parody, now playing at St. Luke’s Theatre Off-Broadway, brings the iconic TV show to the stage. In the latest photo feature for the show, scenic and prop designer Josh Iacovelli shares how he helped recreate some of the sitcom’s unforgettable moments—from the Chick and the Duck and Joey’s “man purse,” to Marcel the Monkey and the framed peephole to the Friends’ apartment.
Also Read: HOW DO YOU RECREATE THE ICONIC FASHION FROM FRIENDS FOR A PARODY MUSICAL?
“We wanted the props to read immediately from first glance,” explains Iacovelli, who worked with director Paul Stancato to narrow down the 100 props used during rehearsals and previews to just 75.
“The show moves along quickly and props were going to fly in and out, so safety and longevity were paramount,” continues Iacovelli, who applied this framework to his design of the iconic orange sofa from the Central Perk.
“My challenge was to make it safe, recognizable and multi-functional. The same sofa needed to quickly turn into Monica's white sofa in her apartment. I started with the bare bones: a great sofa. I reupholstered it with orange fabric complete with chesterfield shape and buttons, recreated the famous gold trim, and attached a hidden fitted slip cover that our actors could quickly flip on and off. During our first performance, the cast got a huge applause making the change. Right there, I knew we had nailed the gag.”
Flip through the gallery below to see the props up close, how they are stored backstage, and how they were chosen and created for the show:
Friends! The Musical Parody is the new satirical musical from the creators of Bayside! The Saved by the Bell Musical and 90210! The Musical, and is currently playing St. Luke’s Theatre.
For tickets and more information visit FriendsMusicalParody.com.
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