Sam Terrell NYC - Lighting Designer

Sam Terrell (she/her/hers) is a lighting designer and assistant dually based out of New York City and San Diego, California. She holds the belief that lighting is about creating atmosphere by emphasizing intent, and establishing a perspective through the medium. Growing up surrounded by music, she loves to intertwine her work with orchestration. As an advocate for accessibility in the theatre, she aims to make her designs accessible to patrons with sensory sensitivities.

Sam has worked at a variety of companies including Playwrights Horizons, Moonlight Stage Productions, College Light Opera Company, Seven Angels Theatre. In 2025, she was the Resident Lighting Designer on staff at the College Light Opera Company.

With personal goal to continuously grow creatively and collaboratively, she has sought out opportunities to observe award-winning designers such as Heather Gilbert, Kevin Adams, Tyler Micoleau, Bradley King, Justin Townsend, Isabella Byrd, Japhy Weideman, and more on their various projects. Sam works hard to implement her learnings into her future endeavours, and is undoubtably fueled by a desire to succeed in doing the work she loves.

Some of her personal likes include orange chicken, dressing warmer than necessary, dogs, fuzzy rugs, and the word “kabuki.” Dislikes include daylight light bulbs, coffee shops without enough tables, and Ticketmaster fees. In her spare time, you can find her hanging out with dogs, watching football, crocheting, or spending time with her lovely friends.

A small collection of some of the incredible people I have had the privilege of working with over the years!