In the pit of 'Water For Elephants' with Mike Dobson
Drummer, Percussionist, and Master Foley Artist
Last month, I had the chance to check out Water for Elephants, Mike’s latest show. I was blown away by everything he was doing. Mike let me take a look at his setup, and I’ve got to say, it was really cool to see all the different things he gets to play with. The creativity and detail Mike puts into his work are incredible.
You can listen to his podcast, released on Monday, November 25th, and watch it on YouTube a week later.
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Mike Dobson is a drummer, percussionist and master Foley artist who’s spent almost 20 years creating unique live music and sound effects for theater and film. Whether it’s a Broadway show, or a circus performance, Mike brings a fresh, creative approach to blending live percussion, Foley artistry, and electronic elements.
His work isn’t just about playing notes or making sounds—it’s about helping tell a story and making it come alive.
Mike’s journey started behind the drum kit, but it didn’t take long for him to explore the broader world of sound. He started performing in circus and clown shows, where he learned how to use sound to enhance a joke or build a moment. Over time, that experience turned into a passion for Foley design—creating sound effects live on stage.
He’s taken that skill to new levels in shows like SpongeBob SquarePants and Water for Elephants, where his setups include everything from traditional drums to found objects like cast iron skillets and custom-made sound gadgets.
From Mike Dobson: Instagram
In SpongeBob SquarePants, Mike combined acoustic and electronic sounds to bring the underwater world of Bikini Bottom to life. For Water for Elephants, he leaned into a raw, earthy vibe, using tools like ribbon crashers and bells to evoke the spirit of a traveling circus.
Mike’s work is inspired by Jack Foley, the man who invented the idea of creating sound effects to sync with movies. Mike takes that same approach to live theater, designing soundscapes that respond to what’s happening on stage in real-time. It’s not just about hitting a button or playing a sound—it’s about timing, creativity, and understanding the overall vision of the show.
When you hear a sound effect in one of Mike’s productions, it feels like it belongs there. That’s because he works closely with directors and music teams to make sure his work fits seamlessly into the story. He’s not afraid to experiment, but he’s also open to feedback—because collaboration is key.
Mike believes that sound design is about more than just technical skills. It’s about understanding the bigger picture and contributing to the creative process without stepping on anyone’s toes. He knows that trust and collaboration are everything in this business, and he works hard to maintain strong relationships with the teams he works with. At the same time, Mike keeps things fun.
What’s Next Mike is always looking for ways to push the boundaries of live sound. He’s exploring new ways to incorporate Foley techniques into theater and finding opportunities to get involved in show development earlier in the process. For Mike, it’s not just about what’s already been done—it’s about what’s possible.
Mike Dobson is more than just a drummer or a sound designer. He’s a storyteller, using sound to connect with audiences and elevate the shows he’s a part of. And he’s just getting started.
For more: https://www.mikedobsonmusic.com/home