The Society of British Theatre Designers

Composed in the 18th Century, La Serva Padrona follows the relationship between a maid and her master, as she pursues him in marriage. By setting the piece in a 1960's hotel room, between newlyweds, the design alluded to 18th Century roots through furniture and wallpaper and the romantic grotto theme (windowless and enclosed), and took advantage of the Linbury stage's pit elevators by creating a sunken area, the three levels echoing a wedding cake.