Onaway Little Theatre – Director: Bridgett Martinez
March 2025
I served as Onaway Little Theatre’s lighting designer for their 2025 production of The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition, in partnership with Near West Theatre. I was responsible for hanging, focusing, programming, operating the light board, and instructing/cueing the parent volunteer spotlight operator.
Working in a space that was part theatre and part gymnasium had its challenges. The cast was large and the stage was small, so many scenes featured performers on the gymnasium floor in front of the stage, or even in the aisles. To make sure they were visible, I borrowed two light trees and four LED Daisy Par 64s from Near West Theatre. This solution allowed for all the actors to be lit, but resulted in light spillage on the proscenium, and harsh shadows on the back wall. I did my best to mitigate these problems. Additionally, since the space was actively being used for gym classes, the equipment had to be set up and torn down every day. Ultimately, these were small prices to pay to ensure that no kids were left in the dark!
What a wonderful opportunity. Participating in children’s theatre when I was young is one of the reasons I’m pursuing a career in theatre now. I love being a part of organizations that get kids involved in and excited about the arts!
