Because dance is a visual art form, the principal concern of the lighting designer is to allow the dancers to be seen in the most effective way possible. No matter what else is happening on stage, it is important to make the dancers look their best while still enhancing the look of the production. It is also important to respect the needs of the dancer; if the light is designed to come from different directions on stage, it still must allow the dancer to perform difficult steps and turns.
For each new ballet a lighting plan must be designed, and in order to do that, the lighting designer attends preliminary rehearsals so he or she can see the action and discuss with the choreographer how the ballet is to look and feel.
A lighting rig consists of a number of electrics bars hung over the stage on which are placed a variety of lamps. A circuit number is given to each of these lamps and the position is noted on the lighting plan so that the lighting designer can control them individually. The designer works from this numbered plan when setting the different lighting states required during the course of the ballet.
When the lighting rig is in place and focussed, it’s time to start lighting the stage. Once the designer is satisfied with the way each scene is lit, he records the details into a computer switchboard. The stage manager who will be in control of the lighting cues during the performance also notes this information. For instance when a lighting cue is called, the switchboard operator puts the computer into action and the lights will change exactly as plotted.
The way the lighting designer uses coloured light is very important because it sets the mood and feeling of the ballet. It also enhances the costumes and scenery, and the dancers’ skin tones; and by using different colours the designer can recreate effects such as hot or cold, and even rain or snow. However, a well-lit stage is an extension of the dancers’ performance, and it should never overpower or take away from the performer unless it’s intended to be part of the action.
