Stage lighting designer
ぶたいしょうめいか
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A specialist who designs and operates lighting in line with the directorial intent for stages, concerts, events, etc., handling spatial staging.
Description
Stage lighting designers are specialists who create light designs to realize directors' intentions in theaters, concert halls, event venues, and similar spaces. They handle everything from devising lighting plans and selecting equipment to electrical wiring, operating followspots and LED lights, programming DMX consoles, and performing live operations during actual performances. Collaborating with staff from other fields such as scenery, sound, and video, they leverage knowledge of color theory and spatial composition to craft impressions for the audience. In recent years, advancements in energy efficiency, LED adoption, and remote operation technologies have progressed, demanding proficiency in digital control and automation.
Future Outlook
With the spread of LED and digital control technologies, and the growing demand for live streaming, the need for remote operation and automation skills is increasing. Environmentally conscious energy-saving staging is also gaining importance, with market value expected to expand further.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Has cooperativeness / Rich in sensitivity
Work Style
Concert tours / Events / Freelance common / Theater staff
Career Path
Lighting assistant (operator) → Lighting designer → Chief lighting designer → Production manager
Required Skills
Basic electrical knowledge / DMX control / Installation and wiring of stage lighting equipment / Lighting console operation / Lighting planning
Recommended Skills
CAD operation / Color theory / Reading English documents / Second-class electrician / ShowCAD
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because it is necessary to flexibly respond to troubles during performances and changes in direction. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because fine adjustments in timing and color greatly influence the work's impression. |
| Communication Skills | Because sharing and coordinating intentions with directors and staff is essential. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it is necessary to charmingly illuminate the stage space with original light effects. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it is necessary to respond calmly even to equipment issues during live performances or under time constraints. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because the stage is constructed in collaboration with directors, scenery, and sound teams. |
Related Qualifications
- Ordinary motor vehicle driver's license
Aliases
- Light designer
- Lighting designer
- Stage lighting designer
Related Jobs
- Director
- Producer
- Scenic designer
- Sound engineer
- Stage director