LDI 2025: Meet The Speakers – Matt Guminski

Matt Guminski is a NYC-based lighting/production designer, lighting director and programmer with his own company MG Lighting Design, a full service theatrical & concert lighting design & production design company.

Live Design: Can you describe yourself in less than 50 words?

Matt Guminski: I am a thoughtful, detail-oriented creative professional who values clarity, polish, and strong presentation. I iterate confidently, refine ideas quickly, and communicate with precision. My questions show curiosity, high standards, and a collaborative mindset. I balance practicality with aesthetics, aiming for work that feels intentional, cohesive, and professional.

LD: Please give a brief overview of your training/education/career path.

MG: A graduate of Boston University in 2003 with a BFA in Lighting Design. I spent most of my early career designing in the theatre world. I started working at several concert venues in and around the Boston area busking all different levels of bands & artists. While serving as a house LD I met many TMs & PMs that happily took my contact information, then I got the call from the band Neon Trees where I joined up as their LD for about five years. During that time I made connections that would last a life time and now have propelled my career to what it is today.

LD: Please describe your most recent project.

MG: I recently got off the road as the LD for Stephen & Damian Marley. Since the tour ended I have designed a show at Dollywood, designed A Christmas Carol in Florida, and programmed a few corporate events in New York City.

LD: What did you teach at LDI and who is your target audience?

MG: I taught the very first Hog 5 Training, for anyone who is interested in learning a new console or getting back behind the desk and learning some new tricks.

LD: What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?

MG: Navigating the Pandemic unscathed.

LD: What is your advice for people just getting into the industry?

MG: Never say no! Take any gig you get the opportunity to be a part of and pay attention to what everyone is doing. Learn from it!