4 minute read
Up Close with Kael Gillam
Senior Associate, Hoare Lea, London
‘My journey into the world of lighting design was anything but straightforward. It began in high school, where I was convinced I was destined for a career in sports. I had my heart set on playing soccer at the varsity level, competing in regional championships, and making a name for myself on the field. But life had other plans. During my tryout, I completely botched it—whiffed the ball, fell in the mud, and felt like a total Charlie Brown. To make matters worse, I came down with mono (mononucleosis) shortly after, leaving me bedridden for weeks. It was a rough start to my high school experience.
During my recovery, my roommate suggested I try theatre since it was something I could do while sitting down. I reluctantly agreed, thinking, ‘Why not?’ I started by painting sets, which is as messy and unglamorous as it sounds. But something about it clicked for me. Over time, I moved from painting to designing scenery and costumes, and eventually, I found myself stage managing. By my senior year, I was fully immersed in the theatre world, working on two major productions a year. It was during this time that I first encountered lighting design.
I remember watching a tall, lanky upper class man climb up on the trusses to hang lights. At the time, I was a tiny 13-year-old, but I thought, ‘I can do that’. The lights were heavy—probably as much as I weighed— but I was determined. I started helping out, burning my fingers on xenon lamps more times than I can count. There was something magical about seeing the lights come together, transforming a blank stage into a vibrant, dynamic space. I wasn’t designing yet—just implementing—but I was hooked.
When it came time to think about college, I stumbled upon Carnegie Mellon University’s technical theatre program. It had a ridiculously low acceptance rate, and my college counsellor told me not to waste my time applying. But I thought, ‘Why not give it a shot?’ To my surprise, I got in. The programme was intense. In the first year and a half, we tried everything—sewing, welding, carpentry, painting, sound, and, of course, lighting. I knew lighting was my passion, but the program pushed me to explore all aspects of theatre. By the end, I was designing, stage managing, and even dabbling in programming lighting consoles.
After graduation, I was terrified of going freelance, so I looked for a more stable, creative role. That’s when I discovered architectural lighting. My professor connected me with an internship at Focus Lighting in New York, where I worked under Christine Hope, an incredible mentor who shaped my career in ways I can’t fully express. She taught me the importance of narrative in design and how to balance creativity with technical precision. My time at Focus was transformative. I worked on projects ranging from high-end restaurants to the New York Aquarium, and even a luxury hotel in Los Cabos, Mexico. It was there, during my first site visit as a full-time employee, that I made the mistake of criticising the hotel’s signature glass candle shades in front of the client. It was a humbling moment, but one I learned from.
Eventually, I moved to London, where I’ve been for nearly a decade. The lighting design community here feels more connected and accessible than what I experienced in the U.S. I’ve found a sense of belonging among fellow designers, and I’ve grown both personally and professionally. Now, I work in an engineering firm, which is a far cry from my theatrical roots, but it’s taught me that your education doesn’t define your career. I’ve learned to embrace new challenges, like sustainability, and I’ve become the go-to person for lighting-related sustainability initiatives at my company.
If I could offer advice to anyone entering the lighting design industry, it would be this: never stop asking questions. Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. Be present in every meeting, even if it seems boring—there’s always something to learn. And don’t let your education limit you. I came from a theatre background and now work in engineering. I’ve seen architects become lighting designers and geography majors excel in this field. The sky’s the limit.
Lighting design is a unique blend of art and science, and it’s a profession that rewards curiosity, creativity and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re hanging lights in a high school theatre or designing for a luxury hotel, there’s always something new to discover. So, take risks, embrace the scenic route, and never stop exploring. That’s where the magic happens.
