Introduction
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the mood, atmosphere, and tone of any production. It can transform a simple stage into a magical world, a solemn event into a jubilant celebration, and a mundane space into an awe-inspiring spectacle. In New Zealand, the art of lighting design has been evolving with time, talent, and technology, and has become an integral part of the country’s vibrant arts scene. In this article, we will explore the work, skills and creativity of lighting designers in New Zealand, and see how their contributions have enriched the performing arts in their country.
Background
Lighting design is a multidisciplinary field that combines art, science, and engineering. It involves the use of various lighting fixtures, equipment, and techniques to achieve the desired visual effects and mood of a production. The role of a lighting designer is to work in close collaboration with other members of the creative team, such as the director, choreographer, set designer and costume designer, to translate their ideas, concepts, and emotions into a compelling visual language. A good lighting designer needs to have a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of color theory, light physics, and human perception, as well as excellent communication and collaboration skills.
In New Zealand, the lighting industry has been thriving for several decades, thanks to the country’s rich cultural diversity and its commitment to promoting the arts. Many local and international productions have been staged in the country, ranging from theatre, dance, opera, musicals, concerts, festivals, and other events. Lighting designers in New Zealand have been able to showcase their talents, hone their skills, and push the boundaries of what is possible with light. Some of the notable lighting designers in New Zealand include Jeremy Fern, Martyn Roberts, Jennifer Lal, and Tony Rabbit.
Jeremy Fern
Jeremy Fern is a well-known lighting designer in New Zealand, who has worked with many theatre and dance companies in the country, including Royal New Zealand Ballet, Auckland Theatre Company, and Silo Theatre. He has also collaborated with international companies, such as Australian Dance Theatre, Ballet Jorgen Canada, and Charlotte Ballet. Fern’s work is noted for its imaginative use of color, texture, and movement, as well as its ability to enhance the emotional impact of a performance. Some of his notable productions include The Arrival, Romeo and Juliet, and The Crucible.
Martyn Roberts
Martyn Roberts is another lighting designer in New Zealand, who has made significant contributions to the industry. He has worked on various productions, such as The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and Evita. Roberts’ work is noted for its innovative use of technology, such as LED lights, projection mapping, and wireless control systems, as well as its ability to create a sense of depth, perspective, and atmosphere. He has won several awards, including the New Zealand Creative Arts Award, the Laurence Olivier Award, and the Tony Award.
Jennifer Lal
Jennifer Lal is an experienced lighting designer in New Zealand, who has worked on many productions, ranging from small-scale jazz concerts to large-scale operas. She has collaborated with various companies, such as the New Zealand Opera, the Wellington Jazz Festival, and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Lal’s work is noted for its sensitivity, subtlety, and grace, as well as its ability to highlight the beauty and intimacy of a performance. Some of her notable productions include Porgy and Bess, The Marriage of Figaro, and The Barber of Seville.
Tony Rabbit
Tony Rabbit is a veteran lighting designer in New Zealand, who has been involved in the industry for over five decades. He has worked on numerous productions, such as Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Cats. Rabbit’s work is noted for its versatility, creativity, and adaptability, as well as its ability to work within tight deadlines and budgets. He has won several awards and accolades, including the New Zealand Order of Merit, the Benny Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award.
