We at PLSN magazine were sorry to hear of the sudden death of Henry Parks, Jr. the Head Electrician / House Lighting Designer at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. Here’s an obituary for Parks from Wolf Trap.
It is with shock and sadness that we give notice of the sudden passing of our friend and colleague Henry Charles Parks, Jr., of Gaithersburg, MD, on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Henry is survived by his children, Justin Clifford Parks, Ryan Charles Parks (Stephanie), and Leah Elizabeth Parks (Damon). He was a beloved nephew of Helen Newman, and is also survived by Doreen Parks Jaller, cherished cousins, a host of dear friends, and dedicated colleagues.
Henry had a remarkable career in lighting. Working landmark events in the Washington, DC area and around the country. His first job was as a motion picture projectionist. Other early jobs included working at the Shady Grove Music Fair near his Rockville, Md hometown to touring with the band KISS. Over his career path, Henry worked as a Sound Engineer and positions on many feature films and television shows that produced locally.
But the most significant positions were those he held at the Filene Center in Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. Henry was hired in May 1981 as a Staff Electrician. After three seasons he was promoted the position of Head Electrician to help open the Filene Center II after the devastating fire in April, 1982. He was in this seasonal position for 41 seasons up until he passed away. Depending on the event, he worked as the House Designer, Lighting Director, Designer and Board Operator. Those events numbered over 3,500 and his work was seen by over 15 million patrons.
Henry had other hallmark events throughout the year including work at the Kennedy Center, The White House, and the Capitol Fourth broadcasts on the U.S. Capitol West Lawn. He was a part of many NBA All-Star Games and all the broadcasts that were a part of that event. Henry also freelanced with IATSE Local 22.
Well-known throughout our industry for his knowledge of lighting control software and networking systems, he was sought out by manufacturers and vendors to review their newest products. Henry will be remembered for his insatiable appetite for technology and the knowledge and expertise he brought to his work. He will be missed for his wry sense of humor and his deep devotion to Wolf Trap.
In honor of Henry’s memory, contributions may be made to the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts or Memorial Gifts | Montgomery County Maryland Humane Society .
