Lighting designer for the National Ballet of SODRE and teacher at the Multidisciplinary School of Dramatic Arts (EMAD), Pablo Pulido shares his career, his vision of the role of light in dance and theater, and the challenges of working in one of Uruguay’s most emblematic cultural institutions.
Pablo Fernando Pulido Gaddi was born in Montevideo 42 years ago. In his childhood, sports occupied most of his passions, never imagining that stage lighting would become the center of his professional life.
The Uruguayan, a fan of Peñarol de Montevideo, recalls: “Sports were what I was most passionate about as a child. I didn’t dream of working in the lighting world; my interest was completely focused there. However, the path towards light emerged naturally as I broadened my interests and discovered new facets.”
Although his family wasn’t involved in the artistic field, curiosity and an inclination toward technology brought him closer to the craft. The turning point came when he saw how luminaires were controlled with Martin’s 3032 software: “That moment was a revelation: I was fascinated by the possibility of combining technology and art. Lighting allowed me to express creativity through electronic systems.”
A self-taught and tenacious education
When he started, access to information was limited: with no digital resources, Pulido chose to learn on his own. He disassembled equipment, photocopied manuals, and experimented at every opportunity.
“My motivation came from understanding that I could transform spaces creatively and efficiently. By knowing how to correctly apply the system, I achieved optimal performance in creating atmospheres and visual experiences,” Pablo acknowledges.
His first major milestone came with the Lighting Week expo in São Paulo, an event that opened his eyes to what the profession could achieve. “It was a turning point: I understood the magnitude of what could be achieved with lighting and creativity, and it pushed me to improve and deepen my knowledge.”
Path to SODRE
His relationship with the National Ballet of SODRE began through technical operation. One of his first jobs was in Le Corsaire, an experience that marked him due to the magnitude and complexity of the production.
“I was immediately drawn to the combination of artistic beauty and technical challenge. On tour, we had to adapt the lighting to different venues and conditions, and that motivated me to keep improving,” he says.
After an open call, he joined as a lighting assistant and, over time, solidified his role as the company’s Lighting Designer.
The responsibility of lighting dance
“Being Lighting Designer and operator at SODRE is an honor and a great responsibility. My role is not only technical but also creative: to create atmospheres that accompany the dance, enhance the narrative, and move the audience,” says Pablo.
Designing for ballet implies, according to Pulido, a balance between art and safety, for example, avoiding shadows or reflections that could interfere with movement. He must adapt and adjust the lighting to different theaters and setups. He also must achieve synchronization, coordinating light with music and choreography. And most importantly, it must be emotional, as he is tasked with amplifying the visual narrative without overloading the stage.
The Lighting Designer for the SODRE Ballet emphasizes: “Lighting must highlight the beauty of movement and ensure that dancers feel comfortable and safe.”
Pulido asserts that music, the choreographer’s vision, and the concept of the piece are his greatest sources of inspiration. “Each piece has a unique energy, and light must reflect it. My task is to adapt the lighting to the rhythm and emotions of the music, always in dialogue with the choreographer.”
Ballet, detail, and emotion
Of the National Ballet of SODRE, he highlights its diverse program and the professionalism of the dance company. “Their discipline and ability to adapt to different styles is admirable.”
On the impact of light in dance, he is clear: “Lights don’t just illuminate: they create the emotional atmosphere that accompanies the piece. Good lighting can intensify the perception of the dance and give it greater depth.”
Technical precision is also essential: “The correct choice of equipment, programming, and synchronization with the action on stage enables a powerful visual experience.”
Teaching and the new generations
Alongside his work at SODRE, he teaches at the Multidisciplinary School of Dramatic Arts (EMAD), covering systems, consoles, software, and luminaires.
Reflecting on his lectures at EMAD, he says: “I see the evolution of new generations as very positive: there’s a diversity of approaches, from deep artistic sensitivity to more effect-driven styles. That variety enriches the field.”
He advises young designers to be curious and never stop learning: “Practical experience is invaluable: every project, no matter how small, contributes to professional growth.”
Projects, renewal, and future
Although he envisions himself both inside and outside SODRE, he is always seeking new freelance challenges. “I’m interested in exploring immersive experiences, corporate events, and innovative shows. The goal is to keep learning and trying new techniques.”
Constant training is, for him, the foundation of his career: studying, observing other areas, and listening to other professionals.
The lighting designer who once dreamed of being a goalkeeper for his soccer club says: “In the coming years I want to keep enjoying every creative process, exploring new ways to work with light, and sharing my experience with the new generations.”
Pablo Pulido leaves a phrase that sums up his craft: “Bringing ideas to life and enjoying them.”
Beyond his technical and creative talent, Pablo Pulido stands out for his human quality. Generous with his students and colleagues, he shares his knowledge without hesitation with anyone who asks, becoming a close and accessible reference within the technical community. His dedication to his work coexists with a strong personal commitment: his wife and son are the true foundation of his life, the silent engine that drives him to keep creating and growing. That combination of professional passion and family values defines him just as much as the light with which he brings every stage to life.
In every production of the National Ballet of SODRE, Pablo Pulido’s mark lights up in the form of atmosphere, color, and emotion. His story shows that lighting is not just a technical matter, but an art that transforms spaces and conveys sensations. From that boy passionate about sports to the professional who today brings dance to life through light, his journey is a testament to how curiosity, perseverance, and creativity can become a craft that moves thousands of spectators. Pablo Pulido doesn’t just light stages: he lights paths.
