Storytelling through Light: A Theatre Lighting Masterclass by Kevin Zerafa

In the lead-up to Mikiel Anton Vassalli College’s annual production, this year’s exciting multidisciplinary triptych L-Aħħar Bastiment: Stories from the Grand Harbour is accompanied by a series of masterclasses that give students a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes processes of professional theatre. Kevin Zerafa – in charge of light design for this year’s production – delivers a masterclass on the art of using light to tell a story.

For the second consecutive year, the Mikiel Anton Vassalli College gave a group of participants the opportunity to attend the Theatre Lighting masterclass at the Malta School of Drama and Dance. The tutor, Kevin Zerafa, shared his both his knowledge and hands-on experience with 14 attendees, through a journey from the foundations of theatre lighting design and how light becomes a silent storyteller onstage.

The expressive power of colour, intensity and movement and how it shapes mood and atmosphere was explored and participants were invited to reflect on the importance of the three-point principle and to discover the “pool of light” during action on stage to ensure that the story is conveyed with strength and emotion.

Participants were also introduced to the practical side of the craft of theatre lighting, and gained valuable insight into basic programming workflows using a widely used industry controller. They also discovered how lighting cues can be woven seamlessly into show control systems.

Attendees left with a deeper appreciation of the artistry and technique behind theatrical lighting, as well as a clearer understanding of the tools and principles that bring professional stage productions to life.

L-Aħħar Bastiment – Stories from the Grand Harbour will be staged on Saturday 9 May 2026 at St. Agatha Auditorium, Rabat. Admission is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance via: https://www.ticketline.com.mt/bookings/Shows.aspx?ProductionId=1293