The theatre community in Hastings and beyond is mourning the loss of Sara Ryung Clement, a gifted scenic and costume designer whose artistry and collaborative spirit left an indelible mark on stages and storytellers alike. Her passing has brought deep sorrow to colleagues, collaborators, and audiences who experienced the beauty and imagination she brought to every production.
Sara was widely recognized as an extraordinary artist whose work combined creativity, precision, and emotional depth. Since her first production in 2016, she consistently contributed breathtaking scenic and costume designs that elevated performances and enriched storytelling. Whether working on Shakespearean classics or contemporary world premieres, her designs were known for being inventive, visually striking, and deeply connected to the narrative.
Over the years, Sara’s portfolio reflected both versatility and excellence. Her contributions included scenic and costume work for productions such as Vietgone (2016), Hannah + the Dread Gazebo (2017), Henry V (2018), The Way the Mountain Moved (2018), As You Like It (2019), and Cambodian Rock Band (2019). She continued to shape productions through the years with projects like Bring Down the House (2020), The Tempest, It’s Christmas, Carol! (2021–2022), Revenge Song (2022), Coriolanus (2024), Julius Caesar (2025), and Henry IV, Part One (2026).
Her work extended across multiple respected theatre companies, where audiences recently experienced her talent in productions like Fake It Until You Make It and Fetch Clay, Make Man. Each design she created reflected not only technical mastery but also a profound understanding of how visual elements support and deepen the emotional experience of a performance.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Sara is remembered as a consummate collaborator. Colleagues describe her as kind, generous, and always bringing a sense of warmth and good humor into every creative space. She had a rare ability to bring people together, fostering an environment where ideas could flourish and creativity could thrive.
Those who worked alongside her speak not only of her talent but of her character—her willingness to listen, her thoughtful approach to design, and her unwavering dedication to her craft. She was deeply respected and genuinely loved by the theatre community, leaving behind friendships and professional relationships that spanned years.
Sara’s passing leaves a significant void in the world of theatre, but her legacy lives on through the productions she helped shape and the countless artists she inspired. Her work will continue to be remembered as a testament to her vision, passion, and commitment to storytelling.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.