Master of Fine Arts, The Ohio State University, 2011, Theatre

Aida, with music by Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice, was a theatrical production presented during the fall quarter of 2010 at The Ohio State University, produced by the Department of Theatre in collaboration with the Columbus Association of the Performing Arts at the Southern Theatre in downtown Columbus. This thesis is a documentation of the lighting design process for Aida. The first chapter is an examination of the Southern Theatre and the producing situation. The second and third chapters address the design ideas for the production, including the director's concept, script analysis, and collaborative efforts. The final two chapters explore the lighting design process from beginning to end, including a self-evaluation of the final design. The concept for the production was to blend the aesthetics of the ancient Egyptian world with modern-day styling, creating a world that feels both current and timeless. The production was conceived and designed to be as grand in scope as possible within the limitations of the space, so that it could effectively convey the epic nature of the story to the audience and draw them into the lush world of the characters. Also, in response to the music, which is largely rock-and-roll-inspired, the lighting for certain scenes reflected a rock aesthetic. A wide variety of modern technology was used in order to achieve this aesthetic and keep the lighting vibrant and interesting throughout the production.

Committee: Mary Tarantino MFA (Advisor); Jimmy Bohr MFA (Committee Member); Kristine Kearney MFA (Committee Member) Subjects: Design; Theater

Master of Fine Arts, The Ohio State University, 2009, Theatre

Godspell originally conceived and directed by John-Michael Tebelak with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, was a theatrical production presented during the spring quarter of 2009 at The Ohio State University produced by the Department of Theatre in collaboration with The Columbus Association of the Performing Arts at the Southern Theatre. This thesis is a documentation of the lighting design process for Godspell. The first chapter is a examination of the Southern Theatre and the producing situation. The second and third chapters explore the design ideas for the production through director concept, collaboration and script analysis. The last two chapters examine the lighting design process from initial stages to final product and provide self-evaluation of the final design. The concept for the production was to connect Godspell to central Ohio by creating a visual environment that reflected the changing and struggling economic landscape of a downtown landmark. The production was developed, researched and designed in order for viewers to absorb the overarching message of Godspell, while becoming energized and inspired to change the world around them. As part of my lighting concept I chose to incorporate a variety of rock-and-roll compositions with a simple and cleanly lit landscape. I also designed a complex light plot that integrated a variety of technology to create a lively and eye-catching world for Godspell.

Committee: Mary Tarantino M.F.A. (Advisor); Amanda Fox M.F.A. (Committee Member); Kristine Kearney M.F.A. (Committee Member) Subjects: Design; Theater