Oct. 26, 2026

Learning and mastering lighting consoles with Madi Adams

Madi Adams shares her journey from early career in live entertainment to becoming a touring lighting designer, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way.

Madi shares her journey through the music industry, from pandemic challenges to touring with top artists, and her insights on industry diversity and mental health.

LEADING LADIES EPISODE 30

Madi Adams, a touring lighting designer, programmer, and grandMA3 instructor whose work spans the biggest arenas, stages, and broadcasts in the world.

With an incredible resume that ranges from serving as Lighting Director for David Byrne's World Tour and Radio City Music Hall resident LD for Hugh Jackman, to designing and programming for Kesha, The Roots, and Hozier—Madi is one of live music’s most versatile lighting talents.

From high-profile fashion shows for Louis Vuitton and Victoria's Secret to world tours for legendary acts like Billy F. Gibbons and WWE, Madi bridges deep technical precision with raw creative spectacle.

This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Madi's early career in live entertainment

00:12 Introduction to Madi Adams' career and episode overview

02:08 Moving to New York and industry background

02:53 Madi's journey before the pandemic and her goals

03:14 Madi's diverse work as a lighting designer

03:55 How Madi discovered her passion for lighting

05:24 Early influences and education in theater

07:00 Impact of the pandemic on her career development

09:02 First professional job and transition to touring

11:58 Exploring her thesis project on light as healing

12:23 Getting her first big tour with WWE

15:59 Transitioning back to touring and recent work with artists

17:15 Challenges as a woman in the industry

19:57 A typical day on tour and routine management

20:32 Navigating industry setbacks and pandemic impact

25:00 The importance of having a personal base and stability

27:41 Breaking into the concert touring scene

30:04 Her experience with diversity and gender in the industry

33:25 Mastering lighting consoles and technical growth

35:01 Advice for young women and overcoming industry challenges

36:50 Adapting during the pandemic and continuous learning

40:02 Future goals and interest in creative design and teaching

45:00 The value of networking and mentorship in career growth

49:59 Managing mental health and industry uncertainties

55:00 Tips for aspiring professionals and staying motivated

Madi Adams

LD/ Designer

I’ve been “doing lights” since I was about 15. Grew up in South Florida, now live in NY and come from a family of creative, entrepreneurial humans.
A good portion of my career has been spent as a touring LD, but I like to dable in other worlds such as installations, corporate and private events and residencies. I’ve also really enjoyed teaching MA programming which I’ve gotten to do with ACT past few years. Occasionally I even get to design something. Hobbiest photographer and long time yogi as well.