The Ohio State University Theatre Department offers design and technology students opportunities for exploring lighting for live performance events, digital lighting applications, and research investigation. Lighting collaboration takes place through productions, classroom projects, and special research project initiatives developed within and beyond the University setting.

Professor Mary Tarantino heads the lighting area, assisted by Matt Hazard, Lighting Supervisor and member of the Theatre Department Staff. In 1995, a Moving Lighting Lab was established in the Theatre Department, and continues to expand each year, by way of inventory, creative projects, and guest artist residencies. The Lab’s mission is:

1. to pursue unique partnerships and collectively make creative discoveries in light;
2. to develop training programs for designers, programmers, and technicians seeking to improve their lighting skills;
3. to continue to grow, remaining flexible and accessible to curious individuals who are intrigued by lighting

Recent guests such as master designers Jules Fisher and Beverly Emmons have visited the department to share their expertise and interact with students. Lighting experts such as Rob Dicken, Rob Holland, Benny Kirkham, Tom Littrell, Sarah Clausen and Jim Waits have taught Master Classes on campus to lighting students, examining design and technology applications, programming, and touring considerations for automated lighting.

For more information on various creative projects, visit: projects page.