Richard Cadena
Richard Cadena is a true titan of the "trenches," bringing over 36 years of hands-on experience to the forefront of the entertainment lighting industry. As an ETCP Certified Entertainment Electrician, Richard has spent decades mastering the complex intersection of power, data, and artistry that defines modern live events. He is perhaps best known as the author of the industry-standard textbook, Automated Lighting: The Art and Science of Moving Light, a seminal work that has educated generations of technicians and designers.
Beyond his technical prowess, Richard serves as the Technical Editor for Lighting & Sound America (L&SA), where he continues to shape the discourse on emerging technologies and safety standards. His career is a masterclass in evolution—from the early days of manual rigs to the AI-integrated future. Richard’s unique ability to translate high-level physics and electrical theory into practical, "road-ready" knowledge makes him an invaluable voice for anyone looking to understand the past, present, and future of the concert touring world.
Related Web Sites:
www.rcad.me
www.electrics.tech
www.automatedlighting.pro
www.APTXL.com
www.lightingandsoundamerica.com
www.lsionline.co.uk
www.esta.org/Protocol/protocol.html
The Hidden History of Moving Lights: From Cyclops to Cyberlights
In this episode, Richard Cadena shares a rich history of entertainment lighting, from early innovations to modern advancements. He discusses the evolution of moving lights, the story behind the Cyclops, and insights into the industry’s technological breakthroughs and business strategies. In this en…