Creating the perfect world for a Netflix Christmas special with a nostalgic holiday variety show vibe for a contemporary pop queen like Sabrina Carpenter is no small feat. Jason Sherwood, a seasoned designer with a background in theater, music, and TV, was the ideal candidate for the job.
Sherwood immediately felt a connection to the concept of Carpenter’s special, entitled A Nonsense Christmas, based on a song from her 2023 holiday EP, Fruitcake. Working closely with Carpenter and her team, Sherwood designed two main sets for the special. Carpenter’s distinct brand made the design process smoother, as her clear identity and vision provided a solid foundation for the creative direction.
Despite not knowing the setlist or guest lineup ahead of time, Sherwood and the team successfully crafted a holiday home set and a fantasy performance set for A Nonsense Christmas. The holiday home set drew inspiration from 90s sitcoms like Friends, while the fantasy performance space exuded old Hollywood glamour with a tiered stage and grand staircase.
The special featured several duets with artists like Tyla, Shania Twain, and Kali Uchis, each receiving a unique design treatment. One standout moment was Carpenter’s duet with pop star Chappell Roan, where the team transformed the pristine house set into a post-party mess for a karaoke scene.
Sherwood’s favorite aspect of the production was being able to blend his love for old Hollywood and variety specials in creating an immersive and nostalgic experience for viewers. Through A Nonsense Christmas, he aimed to transport the audience into a holiday jewel box, offering an escape from reality and a moment of joy and entertainment.
Overall, Sherwood’s expertise in design and his passion for creating memorable experiences shone through in his work on A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant special for fans to enjoy.
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