A "Practical" is any on-stage light source that acts as a practical part of the physical environment of the play (hence the name). This includes table and floor lamps, wall sconces, chandeliers, streetlights and other 'furniture/architectural' style lighting fixtures. The category also includes handheld props such as lanterns or flashlights. The term can also apply to set-mounted lights such as marquee lights, neon signs, Christmas twinkle lights and the like. If there is a television or refrigerator on stage that gives off light, that's a practical light source. Sometimes costumes have lighting devices built into them, like in A Midsummer Night's Dream or Tron: Musical. Light boxes, which act like a mini free-standing cyc is a practical light source.
Practicals can really add another dimension to the overall design. They are sometimes a lot of work for the electrics shop, but it is often worth the effort.
Because these elements are part of other design areas, they become collaborative conversations. Sometimes the set designer comes to the table with ideas for onstage lighting fixtures, and other times the lighting designer will suggest that fixtures be added to the design. The lighting designer is ultimately responsible to determine what type of light bulb is used, and the method of control. The electrics department is usually responsible for rigging and wiring the parts of the set/costumes/props that light up.
Practicals can really add another dimension to the overall design. They are sometimes a lot of work for the electrics shop, but it is often worth the effort.
Because these elements are part of other design areas, they become collaborative conversations. Sometimes the set designer comes to the table with ideas for onstage lighting fixtures, and other times the lighting designer will suggest that fixtures be added to the design. The lighting designer is ultimately responsible to determine what type of light bulb is used, and the method of control. The electrics department is usually responsible for rigging and wiring the parts of the set/costumes/props that light up.