Technical Analysis of Integrated LED Automated Lighting Systems in Theatrical Productions: A Comparative Case Study of Saro the Musical and Death and the King’s Horseman

Abstract

Stage lighting has evolved from technical necessity to a critical storytelling tool, yet integrated system engineering in non-Western contexts remains underexplored. This study addresses the aforementioned gap through comparative analysis of lighting systems in two Nigerian productions, Saro the Musical (2023) and Death and the King’s Horseman (2021), both staged at Terra Kulture, Lagos. A mixed-method engineering approach was employed based on the McCandless Briggs framework. Quantitative methods included a comprehensive equipment inventory, in situ illuminance measurements (Konica Minolta T-10A) across nine grid positions (n=9, repeated across 3 performances), power consumption monitoring (Fluke 345, ±2 % accuracy), and DMX512 latency analysis (Tektronix MDO3000, ±0.1 ms resolution). Results revealed maximum power consumption of 18.45 kW (±0.37 kW, 95% Cl) for Saro and 14.18 kW (±0.28 kW) for Death, with LED adoption yielding 62–70% energy reductions and respective annual CO₂ savings of 1,040 kg and 1,265 kg. Illuminance ranged from 650-850 lux (±8-12 lux measurement uncertainty), with dynamic contrast ratios up to 43.3:1 and uniform stage coverage (min/max = 0.28). DMX system latency averaged 47 ms (±4.2 ms, n=498 cues) with jitter of 3.1 ms (σ) and zero packet loss, complying with ESTAE1.11 and ANSI E1.20 standards. Thermal load reduction of 8°C (±1.2°C) decreased HVAC demand by 25%. A predictive power regression model (R2 = 0.89) was developed. Sensitivity analysis revealed that a 10% increase in grid emission factor or 15% fixture lumen depreciation would alter CO2 savings by 8% and ±6%, respectively. The study concludes that integrated LED and DMX-controlled systems achieve enhanced visual storytelling, substantial reductions in energy and CO2 emissions, and operational flexibility within Nigerian theatre contexts. A standardized engineering framework for sustainable entertainment lighting is established, supporting future cross-contextual evaluation and professional alignment with global technical standards.