The Assistant Lighting Designer’s Toolkit

by Anne E. McMills

First, let me confess – I wish I had stumbled upon this book earlier in my teaching career. It would have saved me much time and effort preparing engaging lessons for my high school students. Anne knows her stuff, and she knows how to pass it on in a way that’s super easy to understand.

What’s valuable about this book for us teachers and our enthusiastic students? 

1. Real-World Insights: One of the biggest strengths of this book is that it doesn’t just dwell in theory land; it takes you straight into the real-world action of being an assistant lighting designer. Anne spills the beans on what it’s like to work with the pros in the industry. This inside scoop is priceless for helping our students connect their learning to the actual theater scene.
2. Practical Application: As a teacher, I aim to equip my students with the knowledge they can apply in their future careers. This book is chock-full of practical tips, tricks, and tools the pros use. It’s like having a backstage pass to the world of Broadway lighting design. Our students get a sneak peek into what it takes to create those magical stage moments.
3. Covers All the Bases: Anne’s got it all covered! From the nitty-gritty of the design office to the adrenaline-pumping tech table moments, she leaves no stone unturned. Our students get a comprehensive understanding of what it’s like to be an assistant lighting designer, and that’s just awesome!
4. Engaging and Easy to Digest: Teaching complex concepts to high schoolers can be challenging. But fear not! This book comes to the rescue with its engaging writing style and user-friendly explanations. It’s like having a cool mentor guiding you through stage lighting.
5. Inspiration Galore: Reading Anne’s experiences and stories in the industry is informative and incredibly inspiring. It motivates our students to dream big and fearlessly pursue their passion for stage design.
6. A Journey Beyond Lighting: Although the book focuses on lighting design, it also delves into the broader aspects of the theater world. It helps our students understand how lighting connects with other elements of stagecraft, fostering a holistic approach to their learning.

In a nutshell, “The Assistant Lighting Designer’s Toolkit” is a goldmine for teachers and students. It empowers us with the knowledge and practical know-how to light up the stage (pun intended!) with our creativity and technical prowess.

If you’re a teacher looking to add some spark to your stage design lessons or a student eager to make a mark in the theater world, this book is an absolute must-have in your toolkit. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed! Get ready to be enlightened and inspired by Anne E. McMills’ fantastic work.