Stanley Kaye

Stanley Kaye is a Professor at the University of Florida’s School of Theatre and Dance, leading the graduate Lighting Design program. With over 40 years of experience in academia and the lighting industry, he emphasizes bridging teaching with professional practice. He holds degrees from Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn College, and the University of Hawaii. Affiliations include United Scenic Artists-829, IALD, IESNA, and PLD.

• Education:
• AA, Kingsborough Community College (CUNY)
• BFA, Brooklyn College (CUNY)
• MFA, University of Hawaii, Manoa
• Research & Design:
• Over 150 productions across theater, architecture, and events.
• Collaborated with Smithsonian American Art Museum on LED system redesign for David Hockney’s Snails Space.
• Developed curricula with Prof. Martin Gold (Architecture) funded by the Nuckolls Fund.

His research interests focus on innovative lighting systems, sustainable design education, and cross-disciplinary collaboration with architecture and broadcast lighting. He founded the podcast Light Talk, a leading resource in the lighting industry with over 150 episodes.

• Awards:
• Po’o-kela Award (2020 URTA Mentor, 2020 Distinguished Alumni)
• Consultancy:
• SKD Design & Consulting LLC, working on projects like the Furman Center for the Arts and Martin Theatre renovation.

Recent initiatives include a 2022 sabbatical at the Smithsonian studying wireless museum lighting and a webinar on reforming lighting education. He advises students through apprenticeships at the Asolo Theatre and promotes industry connections via Lighting Dimensions International.