Budget Theatrical Lighting Techniques

Used Lighting Equipment

• If you're budget strapped, but trying to light a space that requires professional-grade theatrical lighting, purchasing these products second hand may be the best option. Many companies offer slightly used professional grade theater lighting, perfect for creating the light required to put on a play on a large stage or in a sizable venue. Visit a theater supply store in your area and inquire about purchasing used lighting, as many stores either re-sell products or can provide you with information on local re-sellers. If your area is light in theater stores, take your search online, reviewing one of the many websites that specialize in the sale of used theater lighting, like those listed in the resources section.

Lamp-lit Sets

• Those putting on their productions in a more intimate venue can create a lamp-lit set. If you are planning to fill your space with a bedroom, living room or home office scene, and all of your action will take place in this setting, place lamps upon setting pieces. This practice gives your setting a natural look and allows viewers to feel as if they are right at home in your scene. Depending on the size of your theater space, you can use use anywhere from 60 to 150 watt bulbs. If your space is very small, such as a petite shadowbox theater, general 60 to 75 watt bulbs can provide the adequate lighting. If your space is slightly larger, select a brighter 100 to 150 watt bulb and use numerous lamps to ensure sufficient lighting. It is best to use a general incandescent bulb over a energy efficient or halogen option as some of these more eco-friendly bulbs take a period to time to reach maximum brightness. The practice of using lamps as set lighting isn't generally effective if you have scenery changes as unplugging and moving these lamps could prove an arduous task.

Twinkle Light Scenery

• With creativity, you can turn standard Christmas twinkle lights into lighted scene-setting tools. Instead of investing in pin lights to create a starry night sky or sparkly backdrop, simply place twinkle lights through your backdrop material. These lights are inexpensive and accessible to everyone, making them a suitable choice for amateur theatrical productions.

Light Diffusers and Gels

• Instead of buying an assortment of different lights to fill your lighting needs, buy one basic light and change the look it creates with diffusers and gels. A diffuser fits over the light and adjusts its intensity, effectively transforming a bold spotlight into a more scene-washing illuminating tool. Similarly, gels fit over the light and change the color of the beam. By using these hue-changing tools you can wash your stage in tinted light and change the feel of your setting. Both of these light-changing options are significantly less expensive than buying different lights, making them a wise choice for the budget conscious.