This lamp can also be used with coloured filters.Īlthough these are only four light types the possibilities are endless, with countless combinations to be explored across theatre, dance, opera and more and when under the meticulous watch of an expert lighting technician the results can be staggering. It uses a diffusing lens in front of the lamp and when used alongside other Fresnel lights it can offer good overall lighting. With a softer edge than a spotlight a Fresnel is used in similar ways to its more striking, sharp-edged spot light counterpart with the exception that they are typically used for backlighting or top lighting. They can be used with coloured gels but gels used with these lights are likely to perish more quickly than those used with other lights due to the high temperatures emitted by flood lights. Flood lights are relatively basic pieces of equipment by comparison to other lights used in theatre. They should be used sparingly and are not overly common although when used well and in moderation they can produce amazing results and add a much deeper tone to what is happening on stage.įlood lights give off wide angled, clear light but have a drawback of little control over the spread of the light. Strobe lights are used as special effects. The effect it provides can make the movements of individual actors and actresses appear jerky. Used for special effects, a strobe light is a flashing light often used to recreate the feel of old movies. The light is used to draw focus to the character or element it is highlighting and can be used to separate a character from the back drop and characters around them often for an important piece of dialog or to emphasise the action, emotion, or expression of the character. It is used to highlight a character or element on stage and can be accompanied by coloured filters. The spot light is probably the most well-known of the theatre lights covered in this article. They are used in front of lights to project a picture effect upon the stage. Gobos are sheets with designs cut into them. As well as this there are coloured gels which can be place in front of the lights (or lanterns) to cast a coloured light onto the stage. There are many types of lights which can be used in a variety of ways.
When it comes to theatre, lighting is one of the most technical aspects. It can completely change the tone, mood and atmosphere on stage and in this article, we at The Lightyard are going to look at some of the lights use in theatre and the many ways in which lighting is used. Lighting is an essential part of theatre.