Stage lighting planning

Stage Lighting Requires Well-Designed Lighting Systems

Stage lighting is a key element of any performance. It is the use of stage light that perfects the illusion on stage and creates impressive visuals and effects. Therefore, it is crucial that lighting technicians have the appropriate tools to create lighting atmospheres. This makes the goal of planning clear: sufficient power and signal supply points at the main lighting positions, suitable fixtures, and a high-performance control system for the entire installation. Good stage lighting planning develops individual designs for each venue and ensures implementation of these concepts using modern products.

Lighting System Planning

Lighting Positions

Proper illumination of the stage requires the ability to light the action from multiple directions. Key lighting directions include front light, overhead light, top light, backlight, side light, aisle light, and horizon light. A lighting concept determines the location and number of power and signal supply points (connection outlets) for these important positions and consolidates them at key lighting locations. The system user should be able to easily install fixtures at these points.

Connection Outlets and Outlet Boxes

At every position where fixtures are to be used according to the lighting concept, the connection points are consolidated. This is usually done in outlet boxes, which combine multiple sockets in one unit. The boxes are designed and planned individually for each installation location in terms of shape, color, and size. Each box contains both power connections and control line connections. A well-thought-out arrangement of connection outlets forms the foundation of every good lighting design.

Dimmer and Low-Voltage Switchgear

Unlike conventional lighting with a fixed brightness, stage fixtures must allow for continuously adjustable light intensity. Technically, this is achieved with halogen lamps using dimmer control. Every stage fixture connection is therefore equipped with adjustable brightness.

However, halogen lamps may no longer be sold due to existing EU regulations. An exception currently exists for theaters, but it is expected that this exemption will be phased out in the medium term. Therefore, LED technology should be considered in the planning of stage lighting. For LED fixtures, brightness control takes place directly in the device. Only a switchable power supply and a control connection to the fixture are required.

When planning a lighting system, dimmer racks and low-voltage switchgear must be taken into account. Modern combined solutions—installation systems that allow operation of both halogen and LED fixtures—are also feasible.

The installation space and connection ratings for these system components must be planned. The design and coordination of the cabling from the switchgear locations to the outlet boxes is part of stage lighting planning.

Basic Stage Fixture Equipment

Every venue should have a basic set of different stage fixtures. Stage fixtures come in various types and sizes depending on their position and use. When selecting fixtures, the size of the venue and the position and function of the fixtures are decisive. Recommendations for the appropriate set of stage fixtures are part of stage lighting planning.

Work Light and Blue Light

In addition to stage fixtures, the general illumination of the stage area (work light) is often included in the stage lighting system. This ensures that switching these lights on and off during rehearsals and performances is always under the control of the lighting operator.

The installation and switching of minimal pathway lighting (blue light) on the otherwise dark stage and in the areas of the upper and under-stage machinery is also part of the stage lighting system and should be planned as part of the overall installation.

Lighting Console and Auxiliary Control Planning

The interface between the operator and the entire stage lighting system is the lighting console. Consoles are often located in control rooms at the rear of the auditorium, or in event halls in a separate FOH (Front of House) area. Using the console, all parameters of the stage lighting system can be controlled, stored, and reproduced. Operating such a console requires extensive training and experience.

For simplified control of basic functions—such as switching auditorium lights, stage work lights, or individual circuits—auxiliary control panels are used. These panels are permanently installed and have a significantly reduced set of functions. They can therefore be operated by different personnel, including those outside the lighting department.

Cable Management and Spring-Reel Cables

Stage fixtures are often mounted on movable structures, such as overhead lighting bars and bridges. For these locations, flexible cable routing must be planned to accommodate the fixture’s range of motion. Various technical solutions exist, such as flat stage cables, spring-reel cables, and energy chains. Stage lighting planning selects the optimal solution for each specific location.