Lighting (LX)

Have you ever been captivated by the lights during a performance? Wondered how they’re positioned, coloured, focused, dimmed, or programmed? Look no further! The Lighting Department’s role is to illuminate the stage, actors, and create the play’s mood.

Working closely with the Director and our colleagues in Production, the Lighting Designer plans ahead by examining the stage plans and layout for the show and designs lighting for each scene. They consider actor and scenery placement, material, and colour impact. They decide on the position, type, focus, and colour of every theatre lighting fixture.

Before and during rehearsals, the Lighting Designer collaborates with the Lighting Operator to program the console. There may be fine-tweeks of the lamps required, which will be done either during (if it doesn’t upset the flow of the rehearsal and is safe to do so) or after the rehearsal.

Throughout the show, the Lighting Operator manages the console, triggering changes cued by the Stage Manager. This even includes bringing on and off the auditorium houselights and how fast they transition.

Our crew also includes Follow Spot Operators. They play a crucial role in musicals and pantomimes. Follow Spots manually illuminate and track actors on stage using large lights at the back of the auditorium. They set the mood by using different coloured spots – for example, green for the Wicked Witch!

The Lighting Department thrives on teamwork, collaborating together and with all the other departments involved in each production.

Getting Involved

Interested in getting involved? No prior experience with theatre lights necessary – we’ll train you! For more information, contact lights@littletheatresouthport.co.uk