“A Practical Guide to Stage Lighting” by Steven Louis Shelley is an invaluable resource for teachers and students involved in stage design and technology. As a high school teacher, I find this book to be an essential tool for effectively teaching the intricacies of stage lighting.
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Steve’s approach is both thorough and comprehensive, beginning with the basics and gradually advancing to more complex concepts. The book covers every aspect of creating a lighting design, ensuring that students are well-prepared and knowledgeable at each step of the process.
Rather than just presenting dry technical information, Steve shares fascinating stories from his experiences in the field. These anecdotes not only make the content more engaging but also inspire students with valuable insights they can apply in real-world situations.
His ‘Soapbox’ rants—passionate discussions on various critical issues in stage lighting—add a brilliant touch. These rants provoke thoughtful discussions about the art and craft of lighting design, encouraging students to think beyond the technical aspects and consider the broader context and impact of their work. For example, Steve might discuss the importance of considering the audience’s experience or the ethical implications of certain lighting techniques. These insights make the book more engaging and provide students with applicable knowledge for real-world scenarios.
The book serves as an excellent teaching aid for educators due to its clear organization and practical approach. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of stage lighting, such as color theory or lighting equipment, and is further divided into sections that explore related subtopics. This structure makes designing lesson plans straightforward, as educators can easily identify key points to cover in each class. Additionally, the book’s hands-on approach encourages students to apply what they learn, promoting active participation and creativity.
Buy from the publisher Routledge
