Backstage at the Matrix: Theater Tech and the Art of Heisenberg
- Laura K-P
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
July 5-8, Detroit Theatre Collective presented Heisenberg at the Matrix Theater, marking their first run of a show since the pandemic forced early closures. The Matrix is a fantastic blackbox space in Detroit, now expanding its operations to welcome other theater makers and productions — a versatile venue ideal for intimate performances like this one.
About the Matrix Theater
The Matrix Theater is known for its flexible and intimate blackbox space, supporting a wide variety of theatrical productions and creative projects. With growing rental opportunities, it offers artists and groups a unique space to bring their visions to life. To learn more about the Matrix Theater and upcoming shows, visit matrixtheatre.org.
About Detroit Theatre Collective
Detroit Theatre Collective is a dynamic company dedicated to presenting bold, engaging theater in the city. Their recent production of Heisenberg brought fresh energy back to the stage after the pandemic’s long pause. For more on their work and upcoming projects, visit detroit-collective.com.
Stepping into Lighting Design: Tech Express Style
One of the biggest challenges was learning to use a new lightboard all in a single day. We set up the lights, had our first rehearsal, and the first time I actually saw the show was that very evening at the preview. Luckily, some great online tutorials helped me get up to speed quickly. On top of that, we were matching the look of the New York production, so I had visuals and suggested cues to base the design on.
For lighting design, I focused on:
Drawing inspiration from the previous mounting of the show
Ensuring even coverage across all performance areas
Keeping lighting simple to avoid overwhelming the audience in a smaller space
Letting the performances take center stage
In blackbox theaters, less is often more — too much movement or complexity can distract from the actors.
Using QLab for Sound Cues
I also utilized QLab, a fantastic, easy-to-use software for running sound cues. The basic version is free and perfect for theater makers needing a reliable, plug-and-play setup.
Pro tip: Always set your cues to stop playing! QLab allows sound files to run simultaneously, which is helpful — but also means you'll need to manage overlapping tracks carefully.
About Heisenberg
Written by Tony Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), Heisenberg tells the story of a chance encounter between two strangers in a London train station that leads to a complex, emotional, and life-changing relationship.
Detroit Production Credits:
Alex Priest: Michael S. Horowitz
Georgie Burns: T.M. Rawlins
Directed by: Mercedes Ruehl (Tony and Oscar winner)
Produced by: New Music Theatre Project & Rapeteta Theatre Company
Presented by: Detroit Theatre Collective
The show ran two nights only, with wine, cheese, and mingling beforehand — a perfect setting for a provocative and intimate theater experience.
Reflections on Theater and Its Challenges
Running tech while watching the preview reminded me just how vital confidence and smooth cues are to a performer’s rhythm. When tech is dialed in, it creates a space for actors to shine.
Theater is truly a labor of love — creatively fulfilling but financially unpredictable. If you’re interested in the economics behind it all, I highly recommend the Freakonomics podcast episode On Broadway, Nobody Knows Nothing. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how productions get made (and funded).
What’s Next?
Detroit Theatre Collective’s next projects are still unfolding, but I’m excited about a murder mystery show I’m working on and an experimental theater piece co-written with my collaborator Chris Berryman. Can't wait to share more soon.
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