Guest Lighting Designer – Dracula (2026 Production)
Carolina Ballet – 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
- Flat fee: $4,000
- $60 per diem for each on-site day
- Housing provided during the on-site engagement
- 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:
- Collaborate virtually with the Artistic Director, Production Manager, and production team
- Review all production materials including scenic design, costumes, music, and technical specifications
- Develop the lighting concept and overall design approach for Dracula
- Prepare and deliver complete lighting documentation, including cue structure, plotting plan, instrument schedule, and programming notes
- 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 10–16, 2026 – Raleigh, NC
During the on-site engagement, the Guest Lighting Designer will:
- Supervise lighting hang, focus, and system implementation
- Work directly with the Artistic Director during spacing, technical rehearsals, and dress rehearsals
- Create, adjust, and finalize lighting cues throughout the rehearsal process
- Ensure full integration of lighting design with choreography, music, and scenic elements
- Collaborate closely with stage management, production staff, and other designers
- Troubleshoot technical and artistic challenges in real time
- Deliver a fully realized, performance-ready lighting design for opening
Responsibilities Summary
- Complete lighting design for Dracula
- Remote design development and production planning
- Attendance at required virtual production meetings
- On-site execution, cueing, and technical collaboration
- Coordination with Artistic Director and production team throughout all phases
Qualifications
- Professional lighting design experience in ballet, dance, opera, or theatrical productions
- Strong technical knowledge of lighting systems, cueing, and programming workflows
- Proven ability to collaborate in a fast-paced repertory production environment
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and meet tight production deadlines
- 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:
- Resume
- Portfolio or website of recent lighting design work
- Production credits
- Three professional references
- Confirmation of availability for all listed remote, meeting, and on-site dates
Pay: $2,000.00 per week
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Raleigh, NC 27604
