Collected Light Volume Three: Women in Entertainment Lighting

An inspiring collection of lighting designs for stage, theatre, live music, events, film & TV created by 65 female lighting designers and specialists from around the world.

This book includes a range of women working in entertainment – those that work for theatre, concert, opera, events, TV and film. Women from different countries and backgrounds and both those with established careers and those who are just starting out.

In the world of entertainment lighting, an industry that combines the artistry of illumination with the precision of technology, women have historically been underrepresented and undervalued. Despite the pivotal roles they play, from lighting designers and technicians to engineers and programmers, their contributions often go unnoticed in the broader narrative of entertainment. This lack of recognition is not just a symptom of historical oversight but a continuing challenge that underscores the broader issue of gender inequality in technical and creative fields. The celebration of women’s achievements in entertainment lighting is sporadic at best, leaving many unsung heroes whose innovative work and dedication have shaped the visual storytelling of countless productions, from the smallest theatres to the largest concert stages worldwide.

Addressing this disparity is not just about rectifying past injustices but also about inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in entertainment lighting. By highlighting the achievements of women in this field, we not only acknowledge their invaluable contributions but also challenge the stereotypes and barriers that have hindered their recognition. This book aims to elevate these stories, offering a platform for acknowledgement and appreciation. Through these pages, we seek to celebrate the artistry, ingenuity and perseverance of women in entertainment lighting, encouraging a more inclusive and equitable industry where every contribution is celebrated, regardless of gender.

The authors have spent 25 plus years working in the world of light and lighting design and recently it became apparent to them, that there is an onus on and huge visibility of male artists who work with or have worked with light within their body of work.

Sharon and Martin, Light Collective, November 2024

Designers included are: Alita Escobedo, Amy D. Lux, Anna Turra, Anne Militello, Averil Bott, Bethany Gupwell, Beverly Emmons, Cara Hood, Cat Tate Starmer, Céline Royer, Christina Thanasoula, Danielle Feinberg, Daphne Ting-Yu Chu, Diana Kesselschmidt, Domino Mannheim, Elanor Higgins, Elena Armellini, Elisabetta Campanelli, Eliza Alexandropoulou, Ellen Ruge, Emily Bornt, Emma Weil, Erica D. Hayes, Erica Lauren Maholmes, Eve Radwan, Fiammetta Baldiserri, Heather Carson, Hema Maskowitz, Hetall Dedhhia, I-Hua Kao, Iga Pop, Jennifer Tipton, Jessica Greenberg, Jessica Hung Han Yun, Karla López, Kat Borderud, Kathy A. Perkins, Lauren King, Liliana Iadeluca, Lola Barroso, Lucy Carter, Luisa Fanciullacci Södergren, Maria T. Mendoza, Mary J. Varher, Megumi Yatabe, Mildred M. Moyo, Natalie Heckl, Paule Constable, Peggy Eisenhauer, Po-Hsin Liu, Randiane Aalberg Sandboe, Raquel Rosildete, Rie Uomori, Roma Flowers, Sian James-Holland, Sooner Routhier, Sophie Le Meillour, Stacey Boggs, Subul Lodi, Susan M. Nicholson, Tess Minor, Tiffany Spicer Keys, Yana Rits, Yang Yu, Zoe Dirse CSC