Lighting Designer

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Reports to: Production Manager

Start Date: Early August (TBD, negotiable)

The Lighting Designer of a BlueJay production will work closely with the Director, Scenic Designer, and Production Manager to execute a lighting design, installation, and operation for the given show. This position requires significant knowledge of theatrical lighting equipment and techniques, as well as an understanding of storytelling through light.

The full list of expectations of this position are listed below in accordance with the STA Contract:

1. Discuss any special lighting requirements for the show with the Director and Producer, such as practicals, moving lights, color scrollers, etc.
2. Meet with the Director and members of the production team during the design process.
3. Attend at least two (2) rehearsals, designer run(s), and all design and production meetings.
4. Be in communication with all members of the team about any issues that might affect others such as color, texture, floor surface, set mounts, fog, safety issues, and/or special effects.
5. In preparation for the first meeting with the Director, read the script, create a breakdown of scenes and their lighting requirements, and complete basic research regarding time period.
6. Collaborate with the other designers and the Director to create a unified and organized production concept.
7. Be responsible for finding a Production Electrician or assuming the responsibilities of one, whose duties include supervising the installation of all lighting equipment, ensuring that it is installed safely, and completing the focus, hang, placement, or notes for lighting elements.
8. Be prepared and organized to ensure that focus calls proceed efficiently, which includes calling a focus, accurately marking out center line and acting area points, and planning in advance the order of focus and what scenic elements will be necessary.
9. During Cue Writing, meet with the Director to talk through cues, the Stage Manager to place cues in the prompt books, and make sure cues are written/programmed into the light board.
10. During Tech/Dress, work on perfecting visual content and timing of cues, take focus and cue notes, and help to problem-solve issues that arise during tech that involve lighting.
11. During Post Production/Strike, supervise the dismantling of lighting equipment and restoration of the lighting system safely, and return stock, borrowed, or rented items.
12. Respond to rehearsal report notes within 24 hours.

All positions at BlueJay Theater Collective must adhere to the mission statement and core values of the organization, both of which are listed below:

Mission Statement: BlueJay is a Dramatic Theater-based student organization at Emerson College. Their purpose as a collective and organization is to execute and depict relatable theater in which their young-adult and college-aged audiences can see themselves accurately portrayed onstage. In doing so, BlueJay will also work to make audition material accessible for students who are struggling to find text that suits their age group, gender identity, relationship to the content, and/or more, creating a collection of literary materials available for use. They aim to appeal to and uplift the demographic they are working with in creating an inclusive, professional, and familial work environment, as well as creating a space in which actors, designers, Managers, and staff feel supported and encouraged to share their ideas. Their goal is to inspire the artistic spirits of young creatives through proper representation and relatability.

The objectives and goals for BlueJay Theater Collective:

• Execute relatable theater.
• Create a platform for students to access audition materials that appeal to their demographic.
• Provide opportunities for performers to feel personally connected to the characters they portray.
• Reflect on and depict honest stories that will impact the audience beyond the world of theater.
• Create an inclusive, accepting, and collaborative work environment.
• Encourage growth and learning as a collective.
• Inspire joy and excitement for the art we create to influence the communities that surround us.
• Aim to foster an equitable and unbiased space for all.