Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts for Theatre: Lighting Design

Department

Theatre

First Advisor

Larry Quiggins

Second Advisor

Ann Canale

Third Advisor

Donnell Walsh

Abstract

Stephanie E. Robinson's Master's thesis, Lighting the Spirit World, explores the lighting design process for a production of Blithe Spirit at Lindenwood University. As part of her MFA in Theatre with a focus on lighting design, Robinson details her approach to creating a lighting scheme that enhances the play’s supernatural themes. She examines historical and modern lighting techniques, analyzing how lighting technology evolved from the 1940s to contemporary methods.

The thesis discusses the practical challenges faced during the production, including budget limitations that prevented the use of advanced lighting equipment. Robinson adapted by creatively utilizing existing stage lighting fixtures, focusing on color, angles, and intensity to differentiate between the real and spirit worlds in Blithe Spirit. She provides an in-depth script analysis to determine lighting needs and describes the collaboration between the director, scenic designer, and production team.

Her research also contextualizes Blithe Spirit within Noel Coward’s theatrical legacy, exploring how lighting enhances the play’s comedic yet ghostly atmosphere. Through detailed planning, execution, and evaluation, Robinson demonstrates how effective lighting design can shape audience perception, reinforce narrative elements, and elevate theatrical storytelling, even within technical constraints.

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