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Course Syllabus

THEA 2540 Lighting Design

  • Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
  • Department: Theater Arts
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 3; Lecture: 2; Lab: 2
  • Prerequisites: THEA 1513 Stagecraft
  • Corequisites: None
  • Semesters Offered: Spring
  • Semester Approved: Spring 2022
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Summer 2028
  • End Semester: Fall 2027
  • Optimum Class Size: 12
  • Maximum Class Size: 15

Course Description

This course explores the study and application of theory and principles in designing theatrical lighting. Opportunities are provided to exercise theory in practical settings. Students are given opportunities to learn and develop skills in the following areas: (1) design appreciation and aesthetics; (2) the design process; (3) lighting instrumentation, hanging, and focusing; (4) qualities and functions of light; (5) color mixing; and (6) lighting effects.

Justification

Although not a general education course, this class allows the student an opportunity to learn the use of lighting in producing a theatrical work of art. They are tutored in the art and craft of stage lighting and are evaluated on their ability to use lighting within the collaborative framework of theatre production. These experiences are invaluable in developing a student's appreciation and understanding of the art and craft of theatre.This course is offered by most theatre departments throughout the state. This course is required for most theatre majors. Course is required for technical theatre majors throughout the state.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. As a result of this course students will be introduced to the roles and responsibilities of lighting designer, master electrician, and theatrical electrician. As well as the relative terminology used in their fields.
  2. As a result of this course learners will understand the elements of design and their application for lighting design for live performances.
  3. As a result of this course students will be able to discern the specializations and the uses of lighting instrumentation, implement the correct safety practices of hanging and work with theatrical electrical equipment, and apply the procedures of focusing.
  4. As a result of this course a student will be able to navigate the design process from the theoretical stage to a fully realized work.

Course Content

Units in each of the following areas will be covered during the course:1. Design appreciation and aesthetics.2. The design process.3. Lighting instrumentation, hanging, and focusing.4. Qualities and functions of light.5. Color mixing.6. Lighting effects.A goal of this course is to develop student skills to the point they can design the lighting for actual stage productions. Students will be expected to work on assigned portions of each of the Snow College Theatre Department's main-stage theatrical productions.Content of this course is primarily focused on theory and practical application. In this course students explore lighting design through research in the designer research projects to responses of professional productions to lectures that address the need for different color keys.