Whether you're staging a Broadway show, a corporate event, or a community theater production, the right lighting designer can make or break the audience's experience. I've rounded up five top-tier lighting design studios that specialize in theatrical and event lighting.
The State of Theatrical Lighting Design
Theatrical lighting design has evolved far beyond simply illuminating a stage. Today's designers use advanced LED technology, automated fixtures, and projection mapping to create immersive environments that tell a story. The best lighting designers combine technical expertise with artistic vision, working closely with directors and set designers to enhance every production. Whether it's a Broadway musical, a ballet, or a corporate gala, lighting sets the mood, directs focus, and can even become a character in the show. As venues upgrade to energy-efficient systems, the demand for skilled designers who understand both art and technology continues to grow.
How I Ranked These Lighting Design Studios
I evaluated each studio based on four key criteria: portfolio depth and diversity, client testimonials and industry recognition, range of services (from design to installation), and accessibility for different project scales. I also considered how well each studio communicates its unique value proposition and whether they offer specialized expertise for specific types of productions, from intimate plays to large-scale events.
Here's a quick look at the top five lighting design studios, ranked from 1 to 5. Each excels in a different area, so you can find the perfect fit for your next project.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Jeff Croiter Lighting Design | Broadway and large-scale productions |
| Herrick Goldman Lighting Design | Versatile projects from theater to permanent installations |
| City Entertainment Systems | Full-service design and installation for venues and events |
| Home | Moffettlx | Custom theatrical lighting design with detailed paperwork |
| CTDG Theatrical Lighting Design | Integrated lighting design for new venues and renovations |
Deep Dive: The Top 5 Lighting Design Studios
#1 Jeff Croiter Lighting Design
A screenshot of the Jeff Croiter Lighting Design website.
Jeff Croiter is a New York-based lighting designer with an impressive resume that includes Broadway, off-Broadway, dance, opera, and even circus productions. He has won Tony, Hewes, and Bass awards, and his work has been seen at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. Recent projects include 'Hercules' in London's West End and 'Gutenberg The Musical' on Broadway. If you need a designer with top-tier credentials and a proven track record for large-scale productions, Jeff Croiter is a standout choice.
#2 Herrick Goldman Lighting Design
Herrick Goldman Lighting Design (HGLD) is a full-service firm specializing in live theater, dance, and corporate events, with permanent installations in airports, museums, and theme parks. They pride themselves on artistry and visual communication, and their portfolio includes projects like 'Einstein's Dreams' (Off-Broadway) and the LaGuardia Airport Water Feature. HGLD also has a sister company, Evoke Collaborative, for even broader services. This studio is ideal if you want a team that can handle both live performances and permanent installations.
#3 City Entertainment Systems
A screenshot of the City Entertainment Systems website.
City Entertainment Systems has been providing audio, lighting, and stage production services since 1973, making them a seasoned player in the industry. They offer custom lighting design for concerts, festivals, theater, church productions, and conventions, and they also handle system installations and upgrades. Head lighting designer Anthony Forchielli brings experience from venues across the country, including Shakespeare in the Park and Oregon Children's Theatre. If you need a one-stop shop for design, equipment, and installation, City Entertainment Systems delivers.
#4 Home | Moffettlx
A screenshot of the Home | Moffettlx website.
Moffett LX is a lighting design studio run by Wyatt Moffett, offering custom lighting solutions for theatrical productions. The portfolio includes designs for shows like 'Mr. Burns,' 'RENT,' and 'Faust,' with dedicated pages for each production's paperwork. This boutique studio focuses on personalized service and detailed technical documentation. If you're a theater director or producer looking for a dedicated designer who will immerse themselves in your specific production, Moffett LX is a solid choice.
#5 CTDG Theatrical Lighting Design
A screenshot of the CTDG Theatrical Lighting Design website.
CTDG (Certaintech Design Group) offers theatrical lighting design as part of a broader suite of services that includes acoustics, audiovisual planning, and security systems. They focus on bringing theatrical spaces to life with dynamic LED-based lighting and sustainable design solutions. Their clients include universities, hospitals, and entertainment venues like MGM Resorts. If you're building or renovating a performance space and need integrated design across multiple disciplines, CTDG is a strong partner.
How to Choose the Right Lighting Design Studio for Your Project
Start by defining the scope of your project. Are you mounting a single theatrical production, or are you building a new venue? For a one-off show, a boutique studio like Moffett LX can provide focused, personalized attention. For a large-scale Broadway production, Jeff Croiter's award-winning experience is hard to beat. If you need both design and installation, consider a full-service firm like City Entertainment Systems. Always review each studio's portfolio to see if their style matches your vision, and don't hesitate to ask for references from past clients.
Streamlining Your Lighting Design Workflow
To get the most out of your collaboration with a lighting designer, establish clear communication channels early. Share your script, stage layout, and any visual references. Use project management tools to track milestones like initial concepts, tech rehearsals, and final adjustments. Many designers now use software like Vectorworks or Lightwright to create detailed plots and cue sheets, which can be shared digitally for real-time feedback. Automating paperwork and cue management saves time and reduces errors during production.
Bringing Your Stage to Life
Choosing the right lighting designer is about matching expertise to your project's needs. Whether you opt for a Broadway veteran like Jeff Croiter, a versatile firm like Herrick Goldman, or a dedicated boutique studio like Moffett LX, the key is finding a partner who understands your artistic vision and technical requirements. The five studios on this list represent the best in the business, each with unique strengths. Take the time to explore their portfolios and reach out for a consultation. The right lighting can transform your production from ordinary to unforgettable.