Drama

Lighting

 
This project will include:

• a 300-word rationale in the form of a director’s concept/vision 
• a lighting plan for two scenes in the play where the lighting contributes to the dramatic impact of significant moments. The lighting plan must be drawn to a scale of 1:25 metric and may be presented as a computer-aided design submitted as hard copy. 

• a floor plan of the stage indicating significant set features
• a plan showing the location of the lantern positions
• an indication of gel colours and lanterns used for the production and the area that each light covers
• a list and description of the lanterns and gels used for the lighting of the two chosen scenes and a description of their impact on the dramatic action, mood and style
• a cue sheet and running script indicating the lighting state changes and cue points in the two scenes chosen.

Criteria 

Projects will be assessed using the following criteria:

• Originality, clarity and integrity of the directorial vision and the lighting design.
• Skill in realising lighting states that are appropriate to the scenic concept and effective in enhancing the dramatic impact of significant moments in the play.
• Appropriate choice of lanterns and positions, gel colours and intensities in realising the purpose of the illuminations.
• Clarity and accuracy of the lighting plan, cue sheet and running script.
• Relevance and effectiveness of the lighting state changes which enhance the dramatic action, mood and style.

Select a theatre that you have access to.

You will need to visit it on a number of occasions as well as getting floor plans of the stage and the entire theatre.

Is the theatre appropriate for the play chosen?

What are the lighting limitations and needs for this particular space? (This will include location of lighting bars and outlets).

Analyse the play through a couple of readings in terms of its lighting requirements. What is the directorial approach for the play? How will this affect the lighting design?

Designing the set

The role of the lighting designer, in this project area, is also to design a set for the production so it can be appropriately lit.

The style of the set must be appropriate to the play chosen. The lighting of the set should be functional and in line with the likely budget of the play.

Selecting the right equipment 

Use equipment you are familiar with: lanterns, lighting board and dimmer system. Ensure you understand the equipment's function and specifications (wattage).

Don't overkill your design with technology.

Pick up a gel sampler booklet from a lighting distributor so you can accurately list colour and number used.

A lantern stencil will aid in the neat presentation of lanterns on the floor plan. Lantern stencils can be purchased from lighting distributors.

Creating the design concept 

The design should be in keeping with the directorial concept and fulfil the basic lighting requirements. The lighting design should:
 

(i) illuminate the actors and set

(ii) create mood

(iii) focus attention on an area of the stage

(iv) create a special effect.

The role of a lighting designer is to effectively support the play, clarifying action, ideas and moods. The lighting design should not be imposed on the text but come out of the play's needs.

Avoid an overly complex approach. Show understanding through simplicity.

Make a production copy of at least two scenes of the script indicating all lighting cues.

Executing the design

Preliminary rough sketches should be drawn to allow a trial and error approach. This will allow experimentation with lantern selection and placement.The patching dimmer chart should be developed next and must be workable with the combination of lanterns and dimmers.

On the final floor plan the positions and focus of the lanterns must be shown. This can be achieved through a system of overlays or colour-coding.

A list of lanterns, including type, wattage and gel colour, must also be included.

The running cue sheet can be produced once the synopsis and patching chart have been established.
 

Presentation of all the elements of lighting design should be clear, neat and self-explanatory. Designers need to be able to demonstrate their intentions and understanding of the play through their design.

The lighting synopsis and design concept statement will be particularly valuable support material.