Nashville, Tennessee – When TobyMac launched his headlining Hits Deep Tour in 2025, Bandit Lites was there to deliver a system that matched the energy that has been inspiring fans for three decades. With more than 25 Dove Awards and 7 Grammys, TobyMac released his newest album, Heaven On My Mind earlier this month to widespread acclaim.
In addition to TobyMac, the Hits Deep Tour features performances from CROWDER, CAIN, Ryan Stevenson and Terrian. Lighting designer Noah Wood needed to design a system that could support all the bands, in different venue spaces for multiple shows.
He also needed a flexible rig that was able to match the energy and diversity of TobyMac’s music. With dynamic tracks like “Feel It” and “Hello Future,” he ensured that the design was capable of the arena-sized moments that captivate the audience while enabling a seamless transition to smaller, more intimate moments for softer songs like “Lose My Soul” or “Promised Land.”
Bandit Lites provided Ayrton Magic Panel 602, Chauvet Rogue R3 Washes, Chauvet STRIKE Array 2, Claypaky Sharpys, Elation KL CYC L, ROBE BMFL Spots, ADJ Jolt Bar FX 2 and a grandMA 3 Light.
“On Hits Deep, we have the added layer of direct support acts that need to feel big and fully supported by lighting,” Wood explained. “It is quite challenging to find the happy medium between headliner specifics, and guest artists’ needs.”
The fixtures were strategically chosen to create a balance of wash, beam, and special effects, allowing for versatility and visual interest throughout the performance. R3 washes provide broad, smooth lighting for wash effects, while the BMFL and Sharpy fixtures deliver sharp, punchy beams, offering hard-edged effects with precision. To add visual flair, the design incorporates Jolt Bars and edge lights, enhancing the overall atmosphere and providing more creative options. The Magic Panels, positioned on the extreme upstage sides with ultra-wide LEDs, bring an added sense of depth, making the rig feel more expansive.
“Noah has used the lighting rig to its fullest and has made awesome visual moments which really convey the feel of what’s happening on stage,” said Bandit Lites Client Representative Allen Deneau adding, “The TobyMac team is a blast to work with and professional in every way. This is one big family, and I’m thrilled we are part of it. It’s awesome to see all the LDs create and make their artists come to life with this rig. This is a camp who gives things the appropriate time and respect, but they don’t take anything too seriously where we can’t come up with a solution.”
“The key is communication and being flexible,” said Wood. “There is never any reason that everyone can’t be successful. If people can dial back their egos and see that we are crafting a 3.5 hour show not just our slice of it, everything changes. My favorite part of this year’s Hits Deep is that all the LDs are open handed, and curious. We all want to get better and help each other. That does more than any piece of gear ever could.”
“I am super thrilled at the Bandit crew and their relentless pursuit of making things perfect for their tour, and doing it with a smile,” finished Deneau. “Carter Fulghum, Jemma Hutchens, Daniel (Nino) Monserrate and Kris Naylor continue to impress. Bandit Project Manager John Lucksinger did a great job getting the rig prepped with our team and out the door ready to roll and on time. It’s been a big collaboration with Justin Magaldi, Pat Haapanen, Shawn Sullivan, Dennis Stone, Noah and our Bandit team and I very much look forward to the next go around.”
The 2025 Hits Deep Tour continues into March. For more information regarding tickets and upcoming tour dates, visit https://tobymac.com/tour/.
About Bandit Lites, Inc.
Bandit Lites is a full-service design, management and producer of live events, theatrical productions, and live shows. Bandit Lites has a full staff of highly trained professionals to deal with all types of production needs. Bandit’s presence will ensure seamless transitions no matter where your next show takes you. More information available at www.BanditLites.com