Theater Project

Carmen: L'amour est un oiseau rebelle

An experimental lighting design project exploring color, rhythm, and emotional contrast through operatic performance.

TL;DR

I designed and executed an experimental stage lighting system for Carmen: L’amour est un oiseau rebelle, serving as both lighting designer and lighting crew.
The project explored how light color, intensity, and timing can shape emotional rhythm and reinforce performance dynamics in a live theatrical setting.

Overview

This project is a lighting-focused interpretation of Carmen: L’amour est un oiseau rebelle.
Rather than treating lighting as purely functional, the goal was to use light as an active storytelling element, responding to music, movement, and emotional shifts in the performance.

Purpose

The purpose of this project was to:

  • Experiment with lighting as an expressive medium
  • Translate musical and emotional cues into visual rhythm
  • Explore how minimal staging can be elevated through intentional lighting design

The piece emphasizes contrast — freedom vs restraint, playfulness vs tension — using light as the primary visual language.

My Roles

Lighting Designer

  • Designed the overall lighting concept and visual language
  • Selected color palettes and gobos to match musical phrasing and emotional beats
  • Planned cue timing to align with performance structure

Lighting Crew

  • Installed all lighting equipment
  • Handled physical setup, focusing, and adjustment of fixtures
  • Ensured safe and stable rigging for the performance environment

This dual role required balancing conceptual design decisions with practical, on-site execution.

Concept Development

  • Studied the musical and emotional arc of Carmen
  • Identified key moments where lighting could heighten tension or release
  • Chose colors and contrasts that reinforced character dynamics

Technical Setup

  • Installed and positioned lights to support both performers and spatial depth
  • Adjusted angles and intensity to avoid flattening faces or overpowering movement
  • Tested visibility, shadows, and transitions in rehearsal conditions

Cue Design & Iteration

  • Refined lighting cues through rehearsal observation
  • Adjusted timing and intensity based on performer movement and pacing
  • Balanced dramatic effect with clarity and audience comfort

Tools & Techniques

  • Stage lighting fixtures (installation & focusing)
  • Manual and/or programmed cue execution
  • Color gels / LED color control
  • Live rehearsal iteration