Penny Spedding designs and makes props for theatre, TV, and film, specialising in metalwork. With over 30 years’ experience, including 6 years at the Royal Opera House props department, she has worked at the highest level of skill, with top designers and directors in London and across the UK.

 

Her work with Shakespeare’s Globe has included making ‘original practice’ props, hand-crafted with exacting historical detail. The indoor space at the Globe, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, opened in 2014, as a meticulously researched archetype of a Jacobean theatre. The only candlelit theatre in the UK, the design of the six metal chandeliers (each holding 72 beeswax candles) and sconces (on pillars around the auditorium) are an original design by Penny, in collaboration with production manager Paul Russell, and theatre lighting historian Martin White. She continues to work on new candle lighting designs for the Playhouse, utilising both traditional techniques and materials, alongside modern-day twists for productions.

 

Based in Devon, with a fully equipped workshop, Penny continues working in theatre, TV and film, also now designing and making one-off commissions for private clients, including high-end commercial retailers. Locally, her work can be seen in beautiful and original metal gates.

 

Her skills, design and making-knowledge equip her for any commission large or small. Please get in touch to discuss your project and how Penny can help bring it to life.