In ancient time, theatres were designed as open air venues and naturally lit by sunlight with plays staged at different time of the day to make use of the different quality of sunlight as the day progressed. Over time stage lighting has developed from a simple line of candles at the base of the stage, to torchlight, oil, gas, electric arc and limelight.
Modern lighting techniques began in the 1800’s when the use of incandescent lamp allowed lighting to be placed safely anywhere around the stage and which were moveable so that lighting effects could begin to be made.
Techniques for lighting for theatre, danced and opera were further refined during the 1900’s until the lighting designer in any production became a key player, collaborating with set designer and producers, who increasingly realised that money spent on scenery, costumes and cast was wasted without adequate lighting effects.
Lighting designers today often work in a single field of expertise such as theatre, dance, opera, rock concerts, outdoor pageants, fashion shows and industrial or corporate events. Each has its own techniques and technology, but all have the aim of making the production look amazing, using both physical and psychological aspects of light.
One of the most important objectives of stage lighting design is the use of light to create a particular mood or atmosphere, which adds to the audience’s appreciation of the production. Also important, especially in theatre is to illuminate the beautiful and keep hidden the defects in sets, costume and actors alike.
Modern lighting techniques began in the 1800’s when the use of incandescent lamp allowed lighting to be placed safely anywhere around the stage and which were moveable so that lighting effects could begin to be made.
Techniques for lighting for theatre, danced and opera were further refined during the 1900’s until the lighting designer in any production became a key player, collaborating with set designer and producers, who increasingly realised that money spent on scenery, costumes and cast was wasted without adequate lighting effects.
Lighting designers today often work in a single field of expertise such as theatre, dance, opera, rock concerts, outdoor pageants, fashion shows and industrial or corporate events. Each has its own techniques and technology, but all have the aim of making the production look amazing, using both physical and psychological aspects of light.
One of the most important objectives of stage lighting design is the use of light to create a particular mood or atmosphere, which adds to the audience’s appreciation of the production. Also important, especially in theatre is to illuminate the beautiful and keep hidden the defects in sets, costume and actors alike.