Lighting Designer's Journey - From small stage to Tony Awards
Lighting Designer Career - with Kevin Adams
11/25/25
In this episode of How Much Can I Make?, we explore with four-time Tony Award–winning lighting designer Kevin Adams what this theatre job entails, the skills you need to get started. The jaw-dropper? Adams reveals how Broadway designers really make their big money—including income streams, payment structures, union and more. Perfect for anyone curious about Broadway careers, creative jobs, and how much you can make in the performing arts.
Theatre lighting design can range from creative freelance work to high-paying production roles, with income varying widely by experience and venue. A theatre lighting designer can earn roughly $50,000 to $90,000+ a year, while Broadway-level designers and top-tier productions can pay well into the six figures per show or season. Related roles like lighting technicians average about $59,000 annually, while entry-level stage and production jobs may start lower but offer growth as you build credits.
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