Catalog Description
- Transfer Status
- CSU
- Unit(s)
- 3.00
- Lecture: 34.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/102.00 Total hours/2.00 Unit(s)
- Lab: 51.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/51.00 Total hours/1.00 Unit(s)
- Total: 85.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
Course Description: This course involves the study and execution of stage lighting with emphasis on equipment, control, color and their relationship to design. Students will engage in theoretical discussions and review artistic pursuit in lighting design, as well as participate in "hands-on" activities in a practical setting. (C-ID THTR 173).
Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Identify, define and describe terminology commonly associated with theatrical lighting design and execution
- Identify the controllable qualities of theatrical lighting
- Identify the functions of theatrical lighting
- Recognize and explain the different types of drawings and paperwork commonly used in theatrical lighting design
- Calculate the capacity of electrical wire gage and safe current flow
- Demonstrate an understanding of the function of various theatrical lighting instruments
- Recall and practice safety information concerning electrical hazards
- Participate in the hanging, circuiting, focusing, and operation of theatrical lighting equipment
- Demonstrate an understanding of style, color, texture, angle and mood as they relate to theatrical lighting design
- Produce the paperwork necessary to implement a lighting design
Course Content
Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic
Lecture
| Topics | Lec Hrs |
|---|---|
| Introduction to designing with light | 3.00 |
| Electrical theory and practice | 3.00 |
| Lighting Equipment | 4.00 |
| Lighting design paperwork | 3.00 |
| Rehearsal and performance procedures | 5.00 |
| Color theory | 3.00 |
| Lighting angles | 3.00 |
| Advanced and in depth theories of lighting design a. Dramas b. Comedies c. Musicals d. Dance concert lighting | 10.00 |
| Total Hours: | 34.00 |
Lab
| Topics | Lab Hrs |
|---|---|
Assist in the supervision of stage crews | 7.00 |
Supervision of instrument and cable repair | 7.00 |
Supervision of hanging, focusing and circuiting of lighting equipment for departmental productions | 7.00 |
Practical applications of lighting design | 7.00 |
Organizing and performing the duties of Master Electrician for departmental production | 7.00 |
Organizing and performing the duties of Assistant Lighting Designer for Departmental Production | 8.00 |
Designing the lighting for a departmental production | 8.00 |
| Total Hours: | 51.00 |
Methods of Instruction
- Demonstrations
- Discussion
- Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
- Lecture
- Group Activity
Methods of Evaluation
- Quizzes
- Lab Projects
- Written Assignments
- Mid-term and final examinations
Examples of Assignments
Reading Assignments
- Read the script of a play selected by the instructor to analyze the setting and scenes of the play.
- Read reviews and articles on lighting design in the trade journal "Live Design Magazine" or other publications(print or internet-based), and discuss readings.
Writing Assignments
- Write a detailed analysis of requirements for the lighting elements of a play selected by the instructor.
- Write a critique of a live play production detailing the artistic design concepts of the lighting as well as the functionality of the lighting within the world of the particular production.
Out-of-Class Assignments
- Attend at least two live performances of plays, musicals, or dance productions and be prepared to discuss the elements of lighting used to enhance the performance.
- Complete a basic lighting plot of an assigned play or production for class presentation.
Recommended Materials of Instruction
Gillette, J. Michael & McNamara, M. (2019). Designing with Light: An Intro to Stage Lighting. Routledge, 7th.
Mort, Skip. (2015). Stage Lighting: The Technician's Guide-An On The Job Reference Tool. Methuen Drama, 2nd.
Other Learning Materials
Selected scripts according to the production
Ground plans, models, light plot
Color elevations, color renderings
Scenic Design for Theatre (Gillette)
Minimum Qualifications
Drama/Theater Arts (Masters Required)
Stagecraft