Special (lighting)

In stage lighting, a special refers to a lighting instrument that is used for a very specific purpose, rather than being a part of a system of light such as an area light or color wash. It is typically, although not always, used alone, or at a higher level than the other instruments. Specials can also be used to highlight specific objects onstage, such as a piece of furniture, or to fill in gaps which are not covered by the less specific area lights. Specials can also be instruments used to create a very specific effect onstage, such as sunlight through a window, or the rotation of gobos. Specials are generally placed on their own circuit, dimmer, and channel so they can be independently controlled.