CCM Lighting Design and Technology alumnus illuminates the power of light in TEDx Talk

Story by CCM Graduate Assistant Kierra Mykel

In his presentation, Savoie (MFA Lighting Design and Technology, '05) discusses how thoughtful lighting design can influence mood, comfort and well-being in both theatre and everyday life. "With a little understanding of how light works, you can craft your environments to suit your mood or peace of mind," he shared. "Color temperature can make all the difference." The presentation is available to watch on the Tedx Talk YouTube channel. 

Savoie explained that quality matters more than quantity when it comes to light. In his own home, he uses soft, indirect lighting to create a sense of calm. "Uplighting is less harsh and more comforting," he said. "It can turn a house into a home."

Now a longtime faculty member at Washington University in St. Louis, Savoie brings the same care and creativity to his stage work and teaching. He credits CCM mentors Jim Gage, Roh Holland and Kevin Oakeson for helping shape his design philosophy and professional maturity.

Savoie's advice to students and audience members is simple yet profound. "Lighting design is about choice," he said. "You can flip a switch and have light, or you can raise a dimmer with a warm glow. The difference is intention."

CCM Lighting Design and Technology’s BFA and MFA programs are guided by a hands-on, experiential philosophy and holistic approach to the entire entertainment industry. We offer students real production opportunities, access to industry standard technology and professional connections through exciting faculty, guests and alumni.

CCM is home multiple performance disciplines: plays, musicals, dance and opera form our active and varied production season. Student opportunities also include film projects like CCM Idea Lab and other collaborations with CCM's Media Production Division. We also have large format projects both in class and out, led by faculty with broad industry knowledge in multiple disciplines like concerts, TV and corporate events. Our opportunities are not just for lighting designers; they are also for programmers, technicians, innovators, media designers and creatives across the entertainment industry.

Featured image at the top: Sean Savoie's lighting design for "In the Heights," presented at Stages St. Louis in 2022. Photo by Phillip Hamer/ Provided by Sean Savoie.