We use the McCandless method for drama lighting as it provides the most flexible use suitable for most production.
I use the
McCandless method of lighting design for drama, which uses two key lights from
the front for each stage area, each light positioned 45 degrees to the side of the
stage position and positioned at a 45 degrees above the stage position. This
allows a natural light that does not wash out the face, so there are
interesting natural shadows to be seen as the actor moves around the stage
area. The lights can have a warm and a cool colour gel fitted to allow for time
of day to be conveyed to the audience, as well as recreating the colour s of
natural and reflected light.
A back light is positioned about 60 degrees behind the centre of the stage
position to provide a three dimensional feel to the actor. It is important that
the back light has barn doors to prevent any direct light shining into the
audiences eyes. Although very little light is reflected from the actors body towards
the audience, when viewed on a stage you can see the beneficial effect back
light can have.
We demonstrate key lights, backlight, cyclorama light, gobo and effects lighting, footlights.