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Cora McKenna

Lighting Designer, Bad Books

I am a 25-year-old lighting designer based in New York City, passionate about shaping atmosphere and storytelling through light. My work has spanned an exciting range of venues and productions, blending technical expertise with a creative eye for immersive experiences. I have had the privilege of working at the McKittrick Hotel on Sleep No More and Hypnotique, productions that deepened my appreciation for site-specific and experiential performance.


Beyond theater, I have collaborated with large-scale institutions including Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, and the Whitney Museum of American Art, experiences that challenged me to adapt design to diverse artistic visions. I also continue to support New York’s independent arts scene, designing for small dance productions throughout the city and experimenting with how

lighting can move with the body in performance.


Returning to the Kitchen Theatre is especially meaningful for me, following my work on Schiess Book. The opportunity to contribute again to such a dynamic and innovative space inspires me to keep pushing the boundaries of how light can create emotional resonance, shape narrative, and transform space. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with artists who value risk,

imagination, and bold storytelling.

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