Lighting Designer
What does an Lighting Designer do?
What does an Lighting Designer do?
The LIGHTING DESIGNER creates the lighting concept and equipment requirements for a production. Lighting Designers work most closely with the DIRECTOR, SCENIC, COSTUME, and PROJECTION DESIGNERS to create a lighting scheme that communicates the feeling of a production and guides the audience’s attention in specific ways throughout a performance.
Skills
Understanding of equipment and colors | Operating systems (light boards) | How to troubleshoot light fixtures | Ability to give direction | Collaboration | Ability to use ladders
Pathways
Degree in design and/or production | Assisting | Fellowships | Apprenticeships | Internships
How to become a Lighting Designer
How to become a Lighting Designer
Many colleges and universities offer degrees and concentrations in production and design, as well as opportunities for student designers to work on college or student-led productions. Broadway lighting designers often begin as light board operators, stagehands, electrics and assistants themselves, transitioning to the role of designer as they gain experience working with the proper equipment and professionals. Those just starting out may want to explore volunteer, assistant, or stagehand opportunities available in their region for training and experience.
Union/Organization Affiliation
Resources
- EDTA’s “The illuminators”
- Forbes’s “What Do Broadway’s Best Lighting Designers Actually Do?”
- American Theatre’s “Yes, Lighting Design Has a Diversity Problem”
Spotlight on Broadway’s “Natasha Katz Lighting Designer”
Playbill’s “WATCH: Broadway Designer Ben Stanton Reveals the Key to Dramatic Lighting”
Soho Rep’s “FEED presents The Life of a Lighting Designer”
ShowbizU: Lighting Designer- Brian MacDevitt
Meet Cory Pattak, Lighting Designer for The Great Gatsby