Michael Raiford

Michael B. Raiford’s Scenic and Costume Designs for Theatre, Ballet and Opera have been seen throughout the US and internationally. His nomination for the “Prix Benois de la Dance” at the Bolshoi in Moscow is a highlight of a long list of acknowledgements for his unique visual creative voice. Known as a “dramaturgical designer”, he is drawn to new work and the insight it takes to create a new world that has never been seen. With a background in music, Michael has a particular proclivity for how life needs orchestration, be it on stage or in an arena. His insight to performers’ needs is also propelled by his interest in performance coaching and direction.

Highlights of his work include: Septime Webers’ “The Wizard of OZ”. A co-production of Kansas City Ballet, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the Denver Ballet. It has also been seen in Hong Kong and was nominated for the “Prix Benois de la Dance” for Best scenic design at the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow. “ Blast, the Music of Disney”: Tokyo plus National Tour of Japan. Michael was the director and co-creator/stager for this musical spectacle. And new productions of “The Nutcracker” for Oklahoma City Ballet, Nevada Ballet Theatre and Ballet Des Moines.

Other Stage highlights include: Opera Boston; Ballet Austin, Arizona Theatre Company; City Theatre Pittsburgh; The New Victory Theatre, NYC; South Coast Repertory; The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta; GEVA Theatre; Playmakers Rep.; Actor’s Theatre of Louisvile; Ford’s Theatre, Washington, DC; Cleveland Playhouse; Kansas City Rep; The Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Florida; Ballet Austin; Central City Opera; Merrimak Rep; The Antaeus Company in LA and Austin Lyric Opera.

Michael’s journey to the stage began as a choreographer and show creator in Drum Corps International, Marching Bands and Winter Indoor Ensembles. He has Directed, Staged, Designed and Choreographed in DCI, BOA and WGI. He is very fortunate to have had a project in a National or Regional finals for more than 30 years including 8 national titles.

DCI Highlights: In addition to Creative Consulting for The Crossmen, he has been on the design team and Scenic Designer for The Bluecoats for 8 years. Also: The Cavaliers, Academy, The Troopers, The Glassmen, Magic of Orlando and Suncoast Sound, where he started his design and staging career.

BOA Highlights ( Nat or Reg finals: Design and/or staging) The Woodlands HS, Moe and Gene Johnson HS, Castle HS, Friendswood HS, Fishers HS, Lawrence Township, Union HS, Berkner HS, James Bowie HS, Ayala HS, Harrison HS, Pearland HS and Plymouth Canton Educational Park. 

For a look at some of his stage designs visit: https://michaelraiford.myportfolio.com/