Les Misérables

During the Proctors School of Performing Arts summer camp production of Les Misérables, I had the privilege of fulfilling a dual role: lighting designer and educator for a group of enthusiastic, aspiring theater technicians. This immersive educational setting allowed me to share my professional experience while guiding students through the process of creating dramatic, high-impact stage lighting for one of the most beloved musicals in theater history.

Educational Approach
My primary focus as an educator was to provide hands-on, real-world instruction. This began with an overview of fixture types, the fundamentals of color theory, and basic console programming. Through interactive workshops, I demonstrated how each lighting element can heighten the emotional tone of a scene, underscore musical transitions, and direct audience attention. In every lesson, I encouraged students to embrace both technical precision and creative exploration, emphasizing that lighting design is an art form as much as it is a science.

Design Philosophy
Because Les Misérables demands a visually impactful environment that complements the depth of its storyline and music, I prioritized mood creation and dynamic transitions in my design. From bold, high-contrast looks for intense battle scenes to softer, warm washes for tender moments, each cue was programmed to enhance narrative storytelling. Students were not just observers; they participated in cue-building sessions, ran test rehearsals, and practiced focusing lights to capture the musical’s shifting emotional landscapes.

Team Collaboration & Skill Development
I collaborated closely with directors, stage managers, and fellow instructors to ensure all production elements—sound, set, costumes, and lighting—blended seamlessly. Students learned the importance of clear communication and teamwork, particularly during cue-to-cue rehearsals where lighting changes had to align precisely with vocal entrances and set movements. This real-time coordination built confidence and cemented their understanding of how the lighting department fits into the broader production ecosystem.

Outcome & Impact
By production’s end, the students had gained valuable hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation for the lighting craft. Their newfound skills were evident in their confident console operation, conscientious fixture placement, and thoughtful color selections. Many students expressed pride in the visually striking moments they helped create, especially during powerful ensemble numbers. The overall effect was a professional-caliber lighting design that elevated the performers’ work on stage and left a memorable impact on both the audience and the camp participants.

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