The Role of the Specialists - The Lighting Designer

Lighting gels (transparent sheets of colour), can be cut to fit frames attached to the spotlight and other lanterns, and inserted in front of the lense to change the colour of light. Gobos, (cut sheets, sometimes metal, carved to pattern), can also be slotted into the frame to create patterns on the stage floor.

Some lamps/lanterns may also have four 'flaps' hinged to them or 'barn doors' which can be slightly closed to give the desired effect. A series of lamps set in a narrow trough, called striplights, can be hung overhead as 'border lights' to spread the light to the set or background. They can be placed of the floor too, and used to light the cyclorama or units of the set.

To create special effects, there are many instruments used such as projectors with rotating discs to create the effect of movement, as in clouds. Projectors for front and rear projection are extremely useful and can project entire background scenes on to a screen or on to the cyclorama.

Intensity and lighting variations are changed by the use of dimmers. Each change or 'lighting cue' can be preset during the technical rehearsal. Most are electronically controlled and complex lighting cues such as 'chases' are normally accomplished by computerised methods today.

The inclusion of good lighting design can add an enormous artistic dimension to any production and even if your Community Theatre has only the minimum type lighting board, or a small touring rig, it is amazing what a Lighting Designer's artistic skills can do! If you are lucky enough to have a member of your community theatre group who would like to learn about lighting design within your group, give them the opportunity! You won't be sorry.

Thank you for reading this article. Next week we explore sound. If you have any questions or queries relating to community drama workshops please do not hesistate to email me.

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