2. My Project
I was given the opportunity to assist
lighting designer Miguel Valderrama and
assume responsibility for design and
programming choices, as well as
managing all paperwork and keeping it
updated related to the Bindle stiff Family
Cirkus. During the show days and
rehearsals, I ran the lightboard, and
created cues on the fly”
3. Background
the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus is an American circus
group known for its unique blend of circus arts. The
group was founded in 1995 by Stephanie Monseu
and Keith Nelson and has gained recognition for its
modern interpretation of traditional circus acts. They
are here through our resident company Theater
Works.
4. Design
Choices
1. Color- One of my design choices
involved developing color palettes
on the lightboard. By carefully
selecting and arranging colors for
different scenes or moments in the
performance, I aimed to contribute
to the overall visual theme. This
choice allowed me to establish a
quick and coordinated use of colors,
enhancing the overall impact and
aesthetics of the lighting design
during the shows.
2. Focus Pallets-
3. Gobos- I had the choice of picking
the gobos I decided on 2
5. Design Process
In the context of a lighting show, a Channel Hookup, Instrument Schedule and cue list are the essentials that work together to organize and
execute the lighting design and running of the show . I used Vectorworks 2022 and synced the lighting plot with the LigthWrigth software
allowing me to create the instrument schedule and channel hook up using the Light-plot of the theater.
Chanel Hookup & Instrument Schedule
Cue List
Vector works + ligthwrigh
6. Programming
Groups are an essential feature on lighting consoles, allowing the designer to organize
and control different fixtures or channels all at once . These are some of the groups I
created for different lighting purposes for The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus -
1.Aerialist
1. Purpose: Aerialist lights are specifically designed to illuminate performers who are suspended or performing aerial
acts. They are crucial for ensuring the safety and visibility of aerial performers.
2. ability to manage and adjust the intensity, color, and focus of these lights independently.
2.Gobos:
1. Purpose: Gobos are templates or patterns placed in front of lights to project shapes or textures on the stage.
They add visual interest and can be used for scenic effects.
2. Create a group specifically for fixtures with gobos. This enables me to easily manipulate the intensity, focus,
and movement of gobos collectively.
3.Cyc Lights :
1. Purpose: Cyc lights are used to light the background . They help create seamless and smooth background lighting,
allowing for the projection of different colors and effects to enhance the visual ambiance of the stage.
2. Grouping all the fixtures responsible for the Cyc allows for unified control. Adjustments in intensity, color, or
movement
8. Methodology for Running the
Show:
Pre-Show Checks:
• Conduct a thorough pre-show check to
ensure all fixtures are operational,
cables are secure, and cues are loaded
correctly.
Startup Sequence:
• Power on the console and associated
equipment following a specific startup
sequence to avoid potential issues.
Run Cues:
• Execute cues manually or follow the
programmed sequence. Monitor the
live performance and make adjustments
adjustments as needed.
Communication:
• Maintain clear communication with the
lighting team and other production staff
staff to address any unexpected
changes or cues during the show.
9.
10. Conclusion
In Conclusion Working with Miguel Valderama was not just enjoyable but also a valuable
learning experience. I got to see firsthand how the entire lighting design process unfolds,
from the initial planning to fine-tuning the lights. It was especially rewarding because
everything I learned in my lighting courses came together in this culmination. Being part
of selecting lights, understanding the nuances of programming, and contributing to the
overall visual impact aligned perfectly with the knowledge I gained in my lighting studies.
This hands-on collaboration served as a practical application of what I learned in class,
reinforcing and enriching my understanding of lighting design and programming.
