Matilda
2026 Broadway Dallas HSMTA Outstanding Lighting Design Award winner
26th Annual Betty Lynn Buckley Excellence in Lighting Design Award winner
My lighting design for Byron Nelson High School’s production of “Matilda the Musical” contrasts monochrome and polychrome values, representing Trunchbull’s authority versus the children’s spirit. I wanted to visualize Trunchbull’s uniformity and control, so I used harsh lines/beams, stark contrast, symmetry, and sharp angles. Throughout the show, hints of change and rebellion amongst the student body are highlighted by small bursts of color, leading to the turning point, “Revolting Children,” when the color blue is cut out of the show and replaced with a jarring mix of color and a variety of textures, highlighting the kids’ newfound individualism.
Uniformity
Individuality
UV-Reactive Hair
I wanted Mr. Wormwood's green hair reveal in scene two to be over the top and surreal, especially since the actor playing Mr. Wormwood was willing to dye his hair green for the show. As someone with green hair, I knew that my favorite dye that I use is UV-reactant, meaning it glows under blue/black light. During the scene of the reveal, I programmed a subtle blue spotlight over the bathroom sink set piece to create the glowing effect.
I believe that when multiple aspects of design within a show meet, the production will be elevated in a way that can really grab the audience's attention and truly bring them into the story.
Light Plot