Lighting key terms

Question 1

Fresnel

Answer 1

A type of spotlight with a stepped lens that produces a soft-edged beam of light

Question 2

Profile

Answer 2

Profiles create a defined beam of light that is useful as a spotlight for an actor or to pick out details on a set

Profiles are also good lanterns for gobos. Attached to the front of the profile is a gate where the gobo or gel can be placed

Question 3

Gobo

Answer 3

A thin metal or glass template placed in front of a light source to project a pattern or image onto a surface

Question 4

Par can

Answer 4

A par can produces a strong beam of light that is suitable for creating bold colours on
stage

Par cans can be identified by their rounded shape

It is a versatile lighting instrument that produces a bright and focused beam of light

Question 5

Gel

Answer 5

A transparent colored material placed in front of a light source to change the colour of the light

Question 6

Intensity

Answer 6

The brightness or level of illumination produced by a lighting instrument

Question 7

Dimmer

Answer 7

A device used to control the intensity of a light source

Question 8

Spot

Answer 8

A tightly focused beam of light used to highlight a specific area or performer

Question 9

Wash

Answer 9

A broad and even distribution of light used to cover a large area of the stage

Question 10

Crossfade

Answer 10

The gradual transition between two lighting cues or states

Question 11

Blackout

Answer 11

The sudden and complete absence of stage lighting

Question 12

Followspot

Answer 12

A high-intensity spotlight operated manually to follow a performer on stage

Question 13

Cue

Answer 13

A specific instruction for a lighting change or effect at a particular point in the performance

Question 14

Backlight

Answer 14

Light that is positioned behind a performer to separate them from the background

Question 15

Side light

Answer 15

Light that comes from the sides of the stage - used to create depth and dimension

Question 16

Top light

Answer 16

Light that comes from above - used to illuminate the entire stage

Question 17

Colour temperature

Answer 17

The perceived “warmth” or “coolness” of a light - source measured in Kelvin

Question 18

Colour temperature for “Our Country’s Good”

Answer 18

“Our Country’s Good” is set in late 18th-century Australia during the time of British colonisation

Considering the historical context and the themes explored in the play, warm color temperatures such as 3000K or 3500K might be suitable

These warmer tones can enhance the period setting and emphasise the human connections portrayed in the story

Question 19

Strobe

Answer 19

A lighting effect that produces rapid flashes of light - often used for dramatic or dynamic moments

Question 20

Strobes rapidly pulse to…

Answer 20

create a special effect - for example to make the actors appear like they are moving in slow motion

Question 21

Lighting designer introduction

Answer 21

Through a combination of:

• warm and natural lighting
• contrast and shadows
• symbolic elements
• an evolving design
• practical lighting

I would strive to create a visually captivating and thematically resonant production

Question 22

Why would you use warm and natural lighting?

Answer 22

To create a sense of realism and evoke the natural setting of the play

Question 23

What would the use of warm and natural lighting involve?

Answer 23

This would involve using warm colour temperatures such as amber and soft white to mimic the glow of natural sunlight or candlelight

Question 24

Why would you use contrast and shadows?

Answer 24

To emphasise the contrast between the harsh environment of the penal colony and the inner turmoil of the characters

Question 25

What would the use of contrast and shadows involve?

Answer 25

This could be achieved by using carefully positioned spotlights or gobos to create pockets of light and shadow on stage

I can draw attention to key moments and heighten the dramatic impact by selectively illuminating certain characters or scenes

Question 26

Symbolic Lighting

Answer 26

I would incorporate symbolic lighting elements to reflect the themes of the play

During moments of hope or enlightenment = I would use soft and diffused light or warm backlighting to create a sense of warmth and transcendence

I might use gradually changing colors or dynamic lighting effects to represent the transformation of the characters or the changing emotional landscape of the play

Question 27

Why would you have an evolving lighting design?

Answer 27

“Our Country’s Good” is a play that unfolds over time - with the characters evolving and the story progressing

I would reflect this evolution in the lighting design by subtly adapting the lighting cues as the play unfolds

Question 28

What would the use of an evolving lighting design involve?

Answer 28

The lighting could start off with a more subdued and gritty feel in the early scenes and gradually become brighter and more vibrant as the characters find hope and redemption

Question 29

Why would you use practical lighting?

Answer 29

Given the historical context of the play (where candles and lanterns were the primary sources of light)
I would incorporate practical lighting elements to enhance the authenticity

Question 30

What would the use of practical lighting involve?

Answer 30

This could involve using practical fixtures on stage - such as lanterns or candles - that are integrated into the design and serve as functional light sources for the actors

Question 31

What is the effect of blending practical and stage lighting?

Answer 31

I can create a seamless and immersive experience for the audience

Question 32

Caitlin Smith Rapport lighting designer quote

Answer 32

“My first priority is always to serve the story. Lighting design is a mode of storytelling through composition. Light can tell you time of day. Light can direct your eye to what is important in a moment”

“lighting design begins with dramaturgy”

Question 33

What is dramaturgy?

Answer 33

Dramaturgy is the study and practice of the art of dramatic composition - analysing and interpreting plays in order to enhance their meaning and impact (Katie Mitchell vibes)

Question 34

How would you use colour wash in Antigone?

Answer 34

Utilise warm colors (such as deep red or amber) to heighten the emotional intensity during impassioned speeches or moments of conflict

Employ cool colors (like blue or green) to evoke a somber and introspective atmosphere during scenes of mourning or reflection

Question 35

How would you use Gobo projections in Antigone?

Answer 35

Depict abstract patterns that represent the clash between individual conscience and state authority

Gobo projection could be used to create an abstract pattern resembling intertwined chains or shackles