Guest Lighting Designer +ndash; Dracula (2026 Production)
Carolina Ballet +ndash; Raleigh, North Carolina
Independent Contractor (1099)
Carolina Ballet is seeking an experienced Guest Lighting Designer for our 2026 production of Dracula. This is a project-based independent contractor engagement responsible for the full lighting design and execution of the production.
The engagement includes a remote design and planning phase, participation in scheduled virtual production meetings, and a required on-site production period in Raleigh, NC.
Compensation
+bull; Flat fee: $4,000
+bull; $60 per diem for each on-site day
+bull; Housing provided during the on-site engagement
+bull; Round-trip airfare provided by Carolina Ballet (if applicable)
Schedule + Availability Requirements
The Guest Lighting Designer must be fully available for the following:
Remote Design + Planning Phase
Approximately one week prior to on-site production
During this phase, the Designer will:
+bull; Collaborate virtually with the Artistic Director, Production Manager, and production team
+bull; Review all production materials including scenic design, costumes, music, and technical specifications
+bull; Develop the lighting concept and overall design approach for Dracula
+bull; Prepare and deliver complete lighting documentation, including cue structure, plotting plan, instrument schedule, and programming notes
+bull; Coordinate with production and technical staff regarding system requirements and implementation
Virtual Production Meetings
The Designer must also be available for multiple scheduled virtual meetings throughout the pre-production and production process, as coordinated by Carolina Ballet. These meetings are required to ensure alignment across artistic and technical departments.
On-Site Production Period (Required)
October 10+ndash;16, 2026 +ndash; Raleigh, NC
During the on-site engagement, the Guest Lighting Designer will:
+bull; Supervise lighting hang, focus, and system implementation
+bull; Work directly with the Artistic Director during spacing, technical rehearsals, and dress rehearsals
+bull; Create, adjust, and finalize lighting cues throughout the rehearsal process
+bull; Ensure full integration of lighting design with choreography, music, and scenic elements
+bull; Collaborate closely with stage management, production staff, and other designers
+bull; Troubleshoot technical and artistic challenges in real time
+bull; Deliver a fully realized, performance-ready lighting design for opening
Responsibilities Summary
+bull; Complete lighting design for Dracula
+bull; Remote design development and production planning
+bull; Attendance at required virtual production meetings
+bull; On-site execution, cueing, and technical collaboration
+bull; Coordination with Artistic Director and production team throughout all phases
Qualifications
+bull; Professional lighting design experience in ballet, dance, opera, or theatrical productions
+bull; Strong technical knowledge of lighting systems, cueing, and programming workflows
+bull; Proven ability to collaborate in a fast-paced repertory production environment
+bull; Strong organizational and communication skills
+bull; Ability to work independently and meet tight production deadlines
+bull; Full availability for all remote meetings and on-site production dates
Independent Contractor Status
This is a 1099 independent contractor engagement. The selected designer is responsible for all applicable taxes, insurance, and professional expenses not expressly covered by Carolina Ballet.
Application Materials
Please submit:
+bull; Resume
+bull; Portfolio or website of recent lighting design work
+bull; Production credits
+bull; Three professional references
+bull; Confirmation of availability for all listed remote, meeting, and on-site dates
