Lighting Designer Emily Bornt was interviewed for the NAMM Oral History Program. She discovered her love for music and theater early, starting with the recorder before moving to saxophone and guitar in her school’s jazz and marching bands. In middle school, a small acting role sparked a deeper interest—not onstage, but behind the scenes. She quickly gravitated toward costumes and stage management, setting the stage for a future in theatrical design. That passion deepened in high school through an internship with the New York State Theater Institute and later expanded in college, where she took on technical roles in professional productions. Emily eventually launched LEAPS, her own lighting company, designing large-scale shows and touring productions—including collaborations with major artists like Usher. Known for balancing artistic vision with technical precision, she thrives in creating immersive, dynamic stage experiences. Emily is also a proud member of Women in Lighting and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of female designers pursuing creative-technical careers.
