Flashlight Lighting: Light a Scene with What You've Got

With the room dimmed, groups test how one physical scene changes under front light, side light, simulated overhead light and backlight. It introduces lighting design and the jobs behind it.

How to play

1. Quick intro to four basic light positions (front, side, backlight, from below) and to the lighting tech role (4 min).
2. Groups of four: two performers hold a still image and two techs light it from each position; everyone says what feeling each one gives (10 min).
3. With cellophane and rubber bands, they test color and cues: slow fade, hard blackout, a light that follows the performer (8 min).
4. Each group creates a 40-second scene with a three-cue lighting script and presents it with the rest of the room dark (10 min).
5. Clean-up and talk about technical theater careers (3 min).

Rules

• Never point a flashlight straight into anyone's eyes.
• In the dark, walk only; no running or moving without looking.
• Cellophane doesn't touch the bulb if the flashlight gets hot.
• Always keep an exit light on or the door slightly open.

Variations

Adaptations

• Blind or low-vision students: take the sound tech or cue-caller role; avoid full blackout if they have some vision.
• Photosensitive epilepsy: no strobing or fast flicker for the whole group.
• Limited mobility: run the overhead light from a table or from the chair.

Learning goals

• Learn basic lighting positions and their effects.
• Design a simple cue script.
• Value technical careers in the performing arts.

Equipment for a class of 25

• flashlights: 8
• colored cellophane: 4
• rubber bands: 16

Teacher tip

Ask students to bring flashlights ahead of time; phone lights work, ideally in airplane mode and screen down. No cellophane? A colored plastic bag or tissue paper does the job. The classic mistake is waving the light around: a still light says more.

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