Question 1: Describe how a spotlight could be used to highlight a main character during a scene. Include where it might be positioned and its effect.

Answer: A spotlight is typically positioned above or in front of the actor to focus attention directly on them, creating a bright, concentrated beam that isolates the character from the background, emphasizing their importance.

Question 2: Explain the difference between front lighting and backlighting in stage lighting. What effect does each create?

Answer: Front lighting illuminates the actors from in front, making their faces clearly visible and reducing shadows. Backlighting places lights behind the actors, creating a silhouette effect and adding depth or mood to the scene.

Question 3: Identify two purposes of using coloured gels in stage lighting.

Answer: Coloured gels can set the mood or atmosphere of a scene and can also be used to signify different locations or times of day.

Question 4: Sketch a simple lighting plan for a stage scene where the main action occurs in the center, with a mysterious mood. Use symbols to indicate different lighting positions and colours.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a central spotlight highlighting the main action, with dimmer, coloured lights (such as blue or purple) on the sides to create a mysterious atmosphere. Symbols should clearly mark the position of lights and their colours.

Question 5: List three safety considerations when setting up stage lighting equipment.

Answer: Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated, do not overload circuits, and keep lighting equipment away from flammable materials to prevent fire hazards.

Question 6: Describe how a fade-in and fade-out lighting effect can be used to transition between scenes. What mood might a slow fade create?

Answer: Fade-in gradually increases the light to reveal a new scene or focus, while fade-out gradually dims the light to end a scene. A slow fade can create a calm, reflective, or tense mood, depending on the context.

Question 7: Draw a lighting setup for a scene set outdoors at sunset, showing the position of the lights and the colours used. Label your drawing.

Answer: A correct drawing would depict warm orange or amber coloured lights positioned at low angles to mimic the setting sun, possibly with a softer, diffused light to create long shadows and a natural sunset effect.

Question 8: Explain why it is important to control the intensity of stage lighting during a performance.

Answer: Controlling light intensity helps to focus audience attention, create mood, and ensure visibility without causing discomfort or glare to actors and viewers.

Question 9: What is a ‘wash’ in stage lighting, and when might it be used?

Answer: A ‘wash’ is a broad, even coverage of light across the stage, used to create a general background or ambient lighting, often during scene changes or to establish a mood.

Question 10: Sketch a lighting plan for a dramatic scene where the actor is in shadow, with only their face lit. Use symbols to show the light source and its position.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a single, focused light source positioned slightly above and in front of the actor’s face, casting shadows on the rest of the body and background, emphasizing facial expressions.