A Comedy About Spies

Behind the Scenes: The Ingenious Set and Sparkling Chemistry of The Comedy About Spies

We’re thrilled to share a closer look at the production of The Comedy About Spies — a masterclass in comic timing, collaborative brilliance, and design ingenuity.

Photographs by Matt Crockett, capturing everything from the vibrant final sets in addition to pre-build stage photos from the workshop to show you.

Our workshop had an absolute BLAST (Chianti) bringing this production to life — crafting everything from a multitude of cleverly designed hotel doors, to a washing machine built to conceal a full-sized actor, a telephone box with a surprise magic reveal, and a beautifully painted wharf that adds depth and atmosphere to the action. Every piece was a joy to build and plays a key role in the show’s inventive world.

At the heart of this production is a beautifully clever set, designed by the ever-imaginative David Farley - a hard working set with two professional scenery workshops splitting the build. From secret compartments to quick-change scenery, every element has been built with playful precision, inviting the audience into a world of espionage, error, and perfectly timed chaos. Our team was proud to bring Farley’s vision to life (precise design detail), crafting scenery that’s not only visually striking but supports the nonstop physicality and quick-fire comedy of the show.

For the ‘Chianti’ comment, you’ll have to go and watch the production!