David Allen Studio

In a series of iconic photographs featuring San Francisco Bay Area actors, photojournalist David M. Allen celebrates the rich traditions of the San Francisco Bay Area theatre community and his satisfying professional life photographing theatrical performances over the last twenty-five years. The portraits were captured during the last eight years.

Allen created the series to illustrate the diverse spectrum of personalities, artistic freedom and individuality of Bay Area actors. The portraits were developed in collaboration with each actor. They reflect Allen’s enduring love for the theatre and the people who bring it to life.

The concept of the project came from the photographer Irving Penn’s forced perspective studio style. The actors are isolated by the wedge-shaped background upon which they have a small stage to portray themselves in a different light. The free-floating display is inspired by the stage curtain itself.

Like the ghost light that illuminates the darkened stage after a performance to ward off evil spirits, the portraits used a single light source to illuminate each actor’s sense of humor, drama and self.