The lighting community mourned the sudden and unexpected loss of Michael “Mikey” Cummings, who passed away on April 24, 2025, in Fenton, MO. He was a Lighting Designer, Board Operator, Technician, and Avolites Trainer. Mikey left a lasting impression on countless shows, tours, and the people he worked with—both across the country and internationally. Jeff Nickles, President of North Charleston, SC-based Production Design Associates (PDA) wrote this In Memoriam for Mikey.
Mikey’s journey into the world of production began in Charleston, SC, where his work as a DJ and rave promoter led him to hire PDA for one of his events. That encounter sparked a career-changing relationship. Hired as a technician at PDA, Mikey quickly found his passion in lighting and never looked back. He dove headfirst into learning lighting consoles—especially the AVO systems—and began building a reputation for perfection, creativity, and brilliant designs.
He toured with artists such as *NSYNC, Mariah Carey, Tears for Fears, Chris Stapleton, Dokken, Hootie & the Blowfish, and Justin Timberlake. As his career evolved, Mikey expanded into full lighting design, collaborating with acts including the Avett Brothers, Staind, WWE, The Black Keys, American Aquarium, Colbie Caillat, Jason Isbell, Seether, Brandi Carlile, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Crossfade.
Throughout his career, Mikey held full-time positions with several production companies including Pulse Lighting, Gateway Studios & Production Services, Custom Light and Sound, Bazar Imagination, and Bandit Lites. He was also a passionate and knowledgeable Avolites trainer, mentoring many up-and-coming lighting professionals.
Mikey enjoyed life and knew how to throw a good party when he was promoting—we remember lots of crazy stories from that era. He was a perfectionist with his lighting designs—he also could be very opinionated and didn’t hold back on giving his view on something. He had a good heart and was a caring individual, often helping people in need. Mikey never forgot where he came from and always gave credit to those who helped him along. Just before his passing he was in the process of starting a drone lighting company with his son Max. Mikey loved his family and is survived by his wife Kim, sons Max, Holden, and daughter Ella
Mikey’s presence will be profoundly missed—but his legacy will continue to shine on, and in the hearts of those lucky enough to work and laugh alongside him.
