As a designer I believe in creating a world that is both safe and nurturing for the actor and the audience. I try to accomplish these goals by exercising my mind in the process of the script analysis, production meetings, and field research. I have found that good communication is the key to a smooth and seamless product.
When designing I try to integrate into the process with the rest of the creative team. For instance, I will converse with the costume designer on the composition of a fabric dye to make sure that I am using the right tint of blue light to bring out the natural highlights in the costume.
I believe that the goal of our art form is to teach and to please. I feel that my designs play an integral role in supporting the story line. I strive to go beyond helping the audience see the action, and to have a catharsis in my designs. I let the light become a subtle supporting actor just as the set designer creates a life form on the stage.
The best compliment I can receive is when someone does not notice the lighting at all, but instead chooses to discuss the social implications of the material which was presented to them.
