Your Interview NOVARA

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NOVARA

Designer
Indonesia
Introduce yourself (name, company, position, country) and tell us how you got into lighting design (including education/qualifications).

I had been working in the entertainment industry long before I joined the lighting division, so I was already familiar with the role of a lighting designer and what they do. In 2017, I became interested in the field and approached one of the senior lighting designer in Indonesia, asking if he could mentor me. For a few years, I learned under his guidance and worked on several projects under his supervision that shaped my understanding of lighting design.

Tell us about your work – is there a specific type of project you like to work on or an area you specialise in and why?

In the beginning, I worked across various projects — from musicals and fashion shows to weddings , music and corporate events. Over time, I felt a deeper connection to theatre and musical performances, though I still enjoy exploring other types of work. What draws me most to theatre is its creative journey — the rehearsals, the rhythm, the movement, and how light quietly becomes part of the story. While music festivals focus more on energy and rhythm, theatre allows light to speak through emotion.

What project are you most proud of and why?

Two of the projects I’m most proud of was a beautiful musical in Jakarta, based on a true story. Although it was a modest production, everything — from the cast and lighting to the music and set — came together beautifully and moved the audience deeply. It reminded me how a simple powerful collaboration can be.

The second one was this year, when I was invited to design the lighting for an art performance at the Taipei Performing Arts Center by one of the renowned female Indonesian artist — it was an inspiring experience that broadened my perspective as a designer.

What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome in your career?

The biggest challenge for me is being able to translate the vision of the Creative Concept and Directors into light and bring it together as one cohesive show.

How does light inspire you?

For me, light should be able to tell a story and shape the atmosphere on stage — guiding the audience to feel what words cannot say.

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

Be proud. This industry may still be male-dominated, but our light carries the same strength and artistry. We have the capacity, the skill, and the heart to shape stories through light — and we deserve to be seen, respected, and celebrated for it.

Lives in:
Jakarta, Indonesia
Born in:
Jakarta
Qualifications:
Lighting Designer in Entertainment
Started working with light in:
2017
Loves:
music and travel

“Be proud. This industry may still be male-dominated, but our light carries the same strength and artistry. We have the capacity, the skill, and the heart to shape stories through light — and we deserve to be seen, respected, and celebrated for it.”

Selected portfolio:

Musical 9Sembilu, Jakarta. 
Produced by Jakarta MovinMusical 9Sembilu, Jakarta. 
by Jakarta MovinGuruh Gypsi Show at Synchronize Music Festival 2025
Creative Director: Taba SanchabakhtiarOpera Ken Arok at Synchronize Music Festival 2024
Creative Directors: Taba Sanchabakhtiar and Edy KhemodMusical Interaksi , Jakarta 
Produced by Jakarta Movin

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