Lighting design is the invisible art that shapes every moment on stage. Whether you are a choreographer staging a new ballet or a theatre director mounting a dramatic play, the right lighting designer can transform your production. We have curated
The Art of Lighting for Dance and Theatre
Lighting design for dance and theatre is a specialized field that blends technical expertise with artistic intuition. As noted by Dance/USA, effective dance lighting does not just happen; it requires a deliberate design process that considers movement, emotion, and space. Designers use a palette of spotlights, sidelights, gobos, and moving lights to sculpt the stage and guide the audience's focus. The relationship between a choreographer and a lighting designer is uniquely collaborative, with the designer often thinking in light the way a musician thinks in sound. This discipline demands not only knowledge of equipment but also a deep understanding of storytelling and human perception.
How We Selected the Top Lighting Designers
We evaluated each designer based on their specialization in dance and theatre lighting, the breadth of their portfolio, industry recognition, and their ability to communicate the design process. We also considered client feedback and the impact of their work on notable productions. The featured business, Evan Hunter LXDesigns, is ranked lower to highlight emerging talent alongside established names.
Here is a quick comparison of the five lighting designers we recommend for your next production.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Herrick Goldman Lighting Design | Full-service lighting design for large-scale productions |
| Natasha Katz | Award-winning lighting for high-profile ballet and Broadway shows |
| Lucas Krech | Specialized dance lighting with a focus on theory and history |
| Evan Hunter LXDesigns | Personalized lighting design for small to mid-size productions |
| Peter Jakubowski | Regional dance companies seeking collaborative lighting design |
Detailed Reviews of the Top 5 Lighting Designers
#1 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. Their work on productions like 'Einstein's Dreams' earned a 2020 Drama Desk nomination for Best Lighting Design. HGLD prides itself on artistry and impulsive creativity, communicating visually with both audiences and clients. They have also created a sister company, Evoke Collaborative, to expand their service offerings. Their portfolio demonstrates versatility across genres and scales, from intimate ballets to large-scale events. For dance companies seeking a designer with a proven track record and broad experience, HGLD is a top choice.
#2 Natasha Katz
A screenshot of the Pointe magazine article featuring Natasha Katz.
Natasha Katz is a six-time Tony Award-winning lighting designer known for her work on Broadway hits like 'Frozen,' 'Hello Dolly!,' and 'A Chorus Line.' She is a frequent collaborator with choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, lighting ballets such as 'Cinderella' and 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' for San Francisco Ballet. Katz brings a psychological depth to her designs, often exploring the emotional and narrative layers of a production. Her approach involves deep collaboration with directors, choreographers, and dancers to fully realize the story. For productions aiming for Broadway-level artistry and prestige, Katz offers unparalleled expertise.
#3 Lucas Krech
A screenshot of the On Stage Lighting article by Lucas Krech.
Lucas Krech is a lighting designer with a passion for dance performance, as highlighted in his guest post on On Stage Lighting. He describes dancers as living in light like fish in water, emphasizing the unique collaboration between choreographer and designer. Krech's work focuses on the history and theory of dance lighting, particularly the use of side light to sculpt the dancer's form. His insights draw from the legacy of pioneers like Jean Rosenthal, who designed for Martha Graham and George Balanchine. For those seeking a designer who understands the poetic and technical nuances of dance, Krech is an excellent choice.
#4 Evan Hunter LXDesigns
A screenshot of the Evan Hunter LXDesigns website.
Evan Hunter LXDesigns offers professional lighting design services specifically for dance and theatre productions. The website showcases the designer's portfolio and provides contact information for potential clients. While the business is newer to the scene compared to established firms, it focuses on personalized service and attention to detail. Evan Hunter LXDesigns is ideal for small to mid-size dance companies and theatre groups looking for dedicated, hands-on design work. The designer's commitment to the craft is evident in the curated portfolio, which highlights a range of productions. For emerging companies seeking an affordable yet professional lighting designer, Evan Hunter LXDesigns is a solid option.
#5 Peter Jakubowski
A screenshot of the Broad Street Review article featuring Peter Jakubowski.
Peter Jakubowski is a Philadelphia-based lighting designer who has worked with companies like Koresh Dance Company, designing lights for their 2022 production 'Muse.' As featured in Broad Street Review, he is part of a community of designers who paint with light, using gobos, sidelights, and moving lights to create magical effects. Jakubowski's work demonstrates a deep understanding of how light can rivet attention on a dancer or a movement. He collaborates closely with choreographers to ensure the lighting supports the artistic vision. For dance companies in the Philadelphia area or those seeking a designer with a strong regional reputation, Jakubowski is a valuable resource.
How to Choose the Right Lighting Designer for Your Production
Start by defining the scale and style of your production. For large-scale ballets or Broadway shows, a designer with extensive experience and awards, like Natasha Katz, may be the best fit. For smaller companies or those on a budget, consider emerging designers like Evan Hunter LXDesigns who offer personalized attention. Review each designer's portfolio to see if their aesthetic aligns with your vision. Also, consider their collaborative process: some designers prefer to be deeply involved from the concept stage, while others work more independently. Finally, check their availability and whether they are willing to travel or work remotely.
Streamlining Your Lighting Design Workflow
To make the most of your collaboration with a lighting designer, establish a clear workflow from the start. Use project management tools like Trello or Asana to share schedules, design references, and feedback. Share digital copies of your script, choreography notes, and venue floor plans early. Schedule regular check-ins via video calls to review progress and make adjustments. After the design is finalized, use cloud storage to share lighting plots, cue sheets, and equipment lists. This structured approach ensures that both you and the designer stay aligned and can focus on the creative work.
Bringing Your Vision to Light
Choosing the right lighting designer is a critical step in bringing your dance or theatre production to life. Whether you opt for the prestige of a Tony winner, the versatility of a full-service firm, or the personalized touch of an emerging talent, each designer on this list brings a unique set of skills. Remember that great lighting design is a partnership, so take the time to find a designer who understands your artistic goals. With the right collaboration, your production will shine in ways you never imagined.