Showlight made a powerful comeback in May 2025 after an eight-year hiatus, bringing the global lighting community together in the historic city of Dijon, France. Known for its rich artistic and culinary heritage, Dijon proved a fitting setting for the event, which was hailed as the largest and most international Showlight to date.
Attendees from across the globe, including the Americas, Australia, Brazil and beyond, converged in the French city to spend three days dedicated to discussing light in all its forms. The conference welcomed nearly 30 speakers representing a diverse array of disciplines, from film and theatre to public installations and themed attractions.
“I sensed an enormous feeling of joy and relief that Showlight was not just back, but had if anything moved on,” said Bernie Davis, a member of the Papers Committee and the event’s Technical Manager. “I am sure it was the most international Showlight I have experienced.”
The event featured a strong educational focus, with presentations and Q&A sessions translated into five languages. A moment of light-heartedness came with the introduction of the CATCHBOX microphone, which was passed around the auditorium with varying degrees of success, drawing laughter from the audience.
Among the highlights of the programme was a talk by Willie Williams on lighting U2 at the Las Vegas Sphere, and another by Tim Lutkin and Adrien Mourey on illuminating a castle at Disneyland Paris. David Duffy shared his experience of lighting a puppet festival in a remote Arctic village, while Sophya Acosta discussed the creative challenges of working in an intimate venue. The conference closed with a special conversation featuring veteran cinematographer and second unit director Peter Macdonald, who reflected on his 70-year career in cinema.
A new initiative this year was the introduction of Showlight workshops, which took place across three locations and were well-attended. The success of these workshops has paved the way for an expanded programme in future editions.
“It was an amazing experience making some amazing personal and professional connections, while also listening to some fantastic talks and workshops from industry professionals,” said Tayo Rio Wilson, an undergraduate student and recipient of a Sponsored Student place at the event.
Another new feature was the Emerging Professionals (EP) scholarship, aimed at those transitioning between education and full-time professional work. Like the student programme, it attracted a large number of high-calibre applicants. Those who attended played a vital role in supporting the event, contributing behind the scenes as crew, camera operators, exhibitor assistants and front-of-house staff.
“Showlight was a highlight of my early career and gifted me with connections and memories I will treasure for a long time,” said Dominick Zayne Riches, a Sponsored Student. “I arrived as a damp sponge, and now I’m completely soaked! I’m eager to take all I’ve absorbed and wring it out into my craft.”
Throughout the three days, Showlight brought together a vibrant mix of lighting designers, students, manufacturers and exhibitors. More than 40 companies showcased their latest products in the exhibition hall, while networking continued during tea breaks, lunches and company-hosted dinners.
“What I found was a community of incredible and supportive light artists – and I use that term intentionally – gathering to hear from each other about the highest level work that is happening in the world today,” said Clifton Taylor, who led a Colour and Light Workshop.
The Conference Dinner added a glamorous flourish to the proceedings, as guests were transported to the elegant Chateau Vantoux for a champagne reception and meal in the Orangerie, accompanied by live classical and contemporary music performed by a string quartet.
