Skip to main content

Search the Special Collections and Archives Portal

ent000782-029

Image

File
Download ent000782-029.tif (image/tiff; 105.15 MB)

Information

Digital ID

ent000782-029
    Details

    Publisher

    University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Libraries

    When Fost and Wakhevitch concluded their elaborate scenic designs, Knight had the 20 original canvases, each measuring approximately 30 feet in height and 50 feet in length, shipped to the Stardust. After the rolled canvases were placed in proper sequence, the lengthy process of mounting each one on intricately constructed frames began. Since many components of each set required trainloads of materials which could only be obtained from various cities throughout the United States and Europe, detailed advance planning was essential to ensure that all supplies arrived at the Stardust on schedule. This monumental feat of logistics fell to Stardust stage manager Walter Shaner, whose purchase orders included enough lumber to build three split-level ranch homes, more than two miles of steel tubing, enough plexiglas mirror to cover a football field, miles of stained glass and enough multi-colored velour and satin to sumptuously outfit any well- heeled emperor's ladies-in-waiting. Tons of various materials were needed just for a single set, which includes a faithful reproduction of Mt. Fujiyama. The spectacular Oriental scene also includes a large waterfall, 40 enormous boulders and 120 dazzling Japanese lanterns. -30-