Our 2021 winner Morgan Evans shares his career highlights and his successful progression into the lighting world.

How did your passion for the production industry begin?

Like many of my peers, my initial interest in live events was sparked during my involvement in productions and events at school, working backstage rigging and operating the lighting in the school theatre. All my skills at this time were self-taught, but I had caught the lighting bug. I began looking into live events as a possible career path, as I felt these shows were becoming more creative, theatrical and technologically-advanced than the world of theatre.

How did you get into the production industry? 

My time at BRIT School also afforded me some useful work experiences, I worked as a Lighting Technician at The BRIT Awards 2019. I was able to do a placement through BRIT School with the PRG lighting crew, and since then I was asked back to work with PRG on several productions as part of the lighting crew – which has give me a valuable insight into how large shows are put together.  It gave me invaluable on-the-job practical knowledge from the ground up and to witness how large-scale live events come together.

I worked as a Lighting Technician at The BRIT Awards 2019. I was able to do a placement through BRIT School with the PRG lighting crew

Did you even know then how to start your career? 

I didn’t know where to start, I just knew I had a huge passion to do it, I would look for and take every opportunity I could. I left “traditional education” as soon as possible and opted to go to the BRIT School instead of doing A-Levels. From there I was given further guidance. Its definitely can be daunting when starting out, its easy for me to say now having got a job, although opportunities can lead to another and before you know it you have your foot in the door.

Did you do a course? If so, where?

I am currently studying Creative Lighting Control at Rose Bruford College, London. Previous to this, I studied Production Arts at the BRIT School. The BRIT School of Performing Arts and Technology in 2017, where he studied a UAL Extended Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts (Production Arts). BRIT School was an inspirational place to study the backstage arts for free, gain a great grounding in lighting skills and work alongside like-minded students the first time I got to have a window to the industry, it afforded me the opportunity to be mentored and learn from active figures working in the industry and to develop an insight into the kind of jobs different career pathways within the sector.

How old were you when you won your Breakthrough Talent Award?

I was 20.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?  

My highlight was November 2021 programming and designing Headie One’s UK tour, which finished with a headline show at Wembley arena. I was fortunate that Tim Routledge trusted me to take on such a big project.

What was your highlight of 2021?

My highlight was starting permanent employment for designer Tim Routledge has his design associate in August 2021. After working freelance for Tim for over a year, it was great to move into full time role. Since starting it has been non stop!

Any advice to anyone who wants to work in this industry

I would suggest combining a “base level of understanding” from educational training along with the in-the-field experience was the best way forward for me and other aspiring young LDs road crew. Try and get as much hands on experience as possible, even if its not in your desired field.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

I’m looking forward to a couple of upcoming UK tours and summer festivals as we gear back up from covid.