An on stage lamp does two things: it renders the action on stage visible, and it provides visual effects. Theaters need many stage lamps of varying voltages and styles to create different effects and to light up the desired areas of a stage. Good theater lamps also need good control switches so the effects and lights can be controlled from back stage during a performance.

Most theaters rely on several types of stage lamps. The spotlight is the backbone of the lighting system—this lamp type lights up the actors on stage, following their every move. In addition, most theaters have an image-casting lighting solution or lamp, which projects images on the background of the stage and can transport actors to a jungle, bedroom or other environment with the flip of a switch. Rotary lamps, another popular type of stage lamp, are fitted with colored discs that shed blue light for evening scenes or bright lights for day scenes. When looking at theater lamps for your next production, consider:

1. Buying high-quality stage lamps to form the backbone of your lighting system.

2. Saving money by renting stage lamps for special productions.

3. Customizing lamps to help your theater stand out.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy theater stage lamps that can be used again and again

If your theater puts on many productions, you'll use the same basic lighting--spot lights, rotary lights, image-casting lamps and even floodlights--again and again. Buying stage lamps allows your crew to become familiar with one set of lighting and to learn to use the equipment well. Even better, purchasing quality products for multiple productions makes sense and saves you money over time.

I recommend: Stage Spot has been in business since 2000, selling specialty theater lamps and lighting solutions. They offer a wide range of brand names, including ycian, High End, ETC, Lee, Rosco, Gam and Altman. Lamp Technology sells stage lamps that range from six volts to more than 120 volts. Whether you want a theater stage lamp with a Candelabra base, a two-pin base or another style, this company can supply what your theater needs.

Rent theater stage lamps for special productions

Your company may only need some specialty lamps once in a while. For example, if you run a smaller community theater you may require image-casting lamps or floodlights only for special productions. In this case, renting can save you money.

I recommend: 4Wall Entertainment allows your company to rent a variety of stage lamps, including spot lights, dimmers and special effect lighting solutions. Angstrom Lighting rents stage lamps and other theater equipment. The company provides after-hours support, free information about on stage lamps and free consultations.

Customize stage lamps to fit your theater or production

If your theater productions often have a specific theme or particular lighting needs, consider customizing stage lamps. If your theater has some special specs that make lighting a challenge, customized lamps can help you overcome those issues and get exceptional results.

I recommend: DesignLab has 30 years of experience designing lighting solutions for theaters in the Midwest. Their design services can help you create control systems, theater stage lamps and other lighting solutions. Leviton, a specialty lamp manufacturer for entertainment stages, works with companies to create custom theater lighting solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When buying a stage lamp, you may encounter some unfamiliar specs. Most stage lamps are made from quartz, not glass, because theater lamps face higher temperatures and more pressure than most lamps and quartz allows the lamps to last longer without damage. Many stage lamps also have an 'average rated life,' which is really the number of hours the lamp is expected to burn before needing replacement. The power of the stage lamp is measured in watts (W)-the higher the number, the greater the power of the lamp. Brightness and light is measured in lumens (lm)-the higher the number, the brighter the lamp.