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 turns 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.”
