• What inspired you to begin creating Theros: The Elekteiad?

"After the Thunder Saga came out, it was so inspiring that I wanted to attempt to recreate parts of it.  I was thinking of what sets to work on, and since my art file for Theros is still really large, it felt perfect to attempt a recreation on Theros.  And, making sequel sets isn't something that happens in the custom magic space very often, so it's always fun to see how things shape up."

• Where would you say Theros: The Elekteiad is in the development process?

"The set is still in the early phase.  While I do get to cheat a bit, since not only is Theros an existing setting, the basic story is also laid out for me!  However, that doesn't mean I get to skimp out on the actual design.  I'm still at the point where I'm figuring out where and how I want the story to be told and fixing up the skeleton to match."

• A musical is an interesting choice of reference for a set, with multiple set mechanics and cards directly referencing that medium. How did you find striking a balance between “traditional” Magic theming and wanting to respect your source material?

"This has been one of the biggest hurdles that I've had to overcome.  Two of the main methods that I've used are the Sagas and a direct focus.  For the Sagas, I'm using them as the “play”, showcasing what is happening in the actuality of Epic: the Musical.  That means using direct fan art, showcasing the voice actors/performers and so on.  Then, for the rest of the set, I'm using the lyrics, plot points, and vibes, as a guiding point for where and how everything pans out.  So far it's been a bit hard, but looks like everything is shaping up well so far.  Luckily, I have sets like Animus Vox and Love Song as sets that have utilized the perfect way of translating music to Magic."

• What inspired diving the play into two sets, versus just one? And what have you learned so far from this set that you want to use on the next?

"The easiest answer would just be that the musical itself is broken into two parts, Act 1 and Act 2.  However, the true answer is just because of how much stuff is incorporated into the plot and how much I'd actually need to fit into the set, a single set wouldn't be able to actually fit everything together and still be cohesive.  Character motivations, reasoning, and other such things that are things that are expected in a set wouldn't be able to fit with only a single set.  Each act is 25 songs a piece, and that's already with leaving things on the cutting room floor.

A lot of bits that I want to be able to use for the next set is recurring motifs.  It's definitely going to be something hard, but I hope I can accomplish it."

• What is your favorite card in Theros: The Elekteiad?

"Favorite card is probably "Monster".   While there aren't too many cards that are in a more complete stage, I think this is a card that's in a really good place, not only for telling the story, but also showcasing loss and what that can entail.  It's also a good use of the Lyric mechanic.  Just very versatile and lets you see the journey that takes place."