For a show to be effective you must be able to see the actors – this is where we step in. We light the stage in ways to draw the audience’s attention, set the mood, and add to the drama.
When performed well, these elements combined offer a subconscious setting in the mind of the attending audience members, while hopefully never being deliberately noticed as an obvious action…adding to the magic of theatre.
REsPOnsiBilitiEs
Responsibilities of the Lighting Department includes:
- maintaining and setting up the lighting rig
- upkeep of the lighting kit
- design the lighting of the show, liaising with the Director
- running the board each night of the show.
- work with the other departments on some of the more techie needs e.g. projection, on stage electrics, etc.
We are in the process of a full upgrade i.e. new board, replacement of LED lights, new bars, etc. This new investment into the lighting Department will enable us to do more with the shows than has ever been possible before.
cOMMITTMEnt
As much as you want – from manning a spotlight all the way through to designing a show. Must be available for the full run of a show.
sKills
No formal skills required as full training will be given. The work ranges from the practical fitting of lights, through the artistic design of an effect, to the running of the show night – so many different skills are useful. This is definitely a hands on area – so a practical mindset is definitely a plus.
tEMPERaMEnt
The department is definitely part of the “backstage” supporting crew. Any personality would suit – although you definitely don’t have to worry about being seen by the audience.
