• Small stages present challenges for lighting designers. Fewer positions from which to hang lights and often fewer control channels limit the versatility of your design compared to a larger theater. A small stage also means a shorter distance for the light beams to travel (throw distance). This reduces the size of your lighting beam from each instrument. Small stages also offer the option for creative lighting, because the intimate space makes subtle effects more visible.
  
  

Rethink the Basics

• Most lighting design students are taught the McCandless technique. This involves dividing the stage into areas that you light from two points in front and one from behind, something not always possible on small stages. A lighting designer's first objective is to allow the audience to see the performers, so use the majority of your lights from the front to light the actors' faces, even if this means shining a single light straight on for each area of the stage. Add any extra lights from high and low angles on the sides to add shape and depth. Cable low-angle side lights to a supplemental power source, such as wall sockets or dimmers, available for rent from theatrical supply companies, to increase your versatility.
  
  

Nontraditional Lights

• Supplement standard theatrical lighting instruments with other forms of lighting to enhance the look of your small-stage performance. Rope lights or reading lights tucked behind scenery pieces can fill in shadows and create the appearance of depth. Add floor or table lamps to interior sets for additional lighting near your subjects. For outdoor sets, use street lamp style lamp posts or other relevant light fixtures. Light from these fixtures can go a long way in a small space. Hang a row of strip lights from a boom for side lighting. The strips take up less space than more adjustable instruments would, and you can get several colors from multiple-circuit strip lights.
  
  

Coordinate Designs

• Work with the scenery and costuming department to extend your lighting options on a small stage. Light-colored set pieces can fill in shadows by bouncing the existing light around. This allows you to reduce your overall light levels, making good use of limited instruments or extending the function of any practicals on your set. Ask your costumer to consider light-colored tops for the actors, as these will help reflect light up toward the actors' faces. Off-whites often work better than bright whites, which can be distracting if they appear significantly brighter than the actors.