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Lights Out, Getting Personal With Lighting Pro Jack Kelly
Ok, let’s start at the
beginning, where were you born”
What did your parents do? “Both of them were ministers. My dad was also a public school teacher.”
When did you first realize that you wanted to get involved in lighting? “In the Spring of 2002, I was working with Michael Cummings at IPS Inc. I came to him with recording and audio knowledge. I didn’t know a thing about lights. . . but I learned.”
What was the first great lighting application you ever saw? “I didn’t see many big shows when I was younger. I spent most of my time in live music indie spots with mediocre sound systems and maybe a couple of par cans. I shouldn’t admit this but I only like my own work. I cannot help but think what I could have done different when watching concerts. The only thing that stands out in my mind is Radiohead's last tour. I have never experienced such well orchestrated programming and imagination. I believe it is the best lighting design I have ever experienced.”
What would you have done if you didn't get involved in lighting? “Get a Degree in Intellectual Property Law, maybe finish my Electrical Engineering Degree, Become a Composer (my actual degree), Music Minister, Continue Teaching Swing Dance (Dance Consultant for Leatherheads), Go back on tour with a band (Pacific UV: 2004), Graphic/Web Design, . . . I don’t know anything is possible”
What was the last joke, comedy or generally funny thing that really made you laugh out loud? “I don’t catalogue those things in my head. Lots of things make me laugh: Richard Pryor, Dane Cook, The Simpsons, Apatow Films, 30 Rock, My Friend- Jon Moore, Jon Daily, Ridiculous People, my daughter, etc.”
If you could change anything in the world right now what would it be? “I believe the world is adaptable and amazing. I wouldn’t presume to know enough to answer that question. I believe that if I listen to the world around me, I can change myself in a positive way and become a more influential member of society. Some people call it God others call it nature, regardless the still small voice or conscience is present. I don’t think I should presume to be God. I am better off listening and learning.”
What do you spend most of your time doing when you aren't working? “Play with my children. I have one amazing daughter Aria Rian and a rocking son Asher.”
How do you relax and get away from the stress of work? “I enjoy rock climbing, playing the piano and upright bass, updating my websites, holding my daughter, watching something on TV, and organizing and cleaning my house.”
Do you have a favorite automobile? Restaurant? Airline? Breakfast? Dinner? Dessert? Brand of liquor or beer? “I don’t believe in Favorites, I think people make them up in order to connect to other people. It isn’t wrong to have favorites but my “favorites” change too often to mark them.”
Do you root for any sports teams? “Not anymore. I don’t have time between work and family. If I did, Georgia Southern Eagles and Carolina Panthers.”
What are your best things to do or destinations to go to when you're on vacation? “Some place far away from big cities: Beaches, Mountains, and other get away locations.”
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