Event producers who can speak the language of stage production get better quotes, fewer surprises, and faster builds. This is the working glossary we send new clients.
FOH — Front of House
The area in front of the stage where the audience sits, and the position from which the show’s audio and lighting are controlled. “FOH mix” means the sound desk position.
Rigging Points
The structural attachment points in a venue’s ceiling or grid where lighting, set, or aerial elements can be hung. Load-rated and certified.
Truss
The metal structure (usually aluminium) that holds lighting fixtures above the stage. Comes in various lengths and load capacities.
Riser
A raised platform. Used for band, set elements, or to elevate sections of the stage.
Wash
A broad area of light covering the whole stage. The opposite is a “specials” — focused beams on a single point.
Cue
A scripted technical moment. “Light cue 47” is the 47th lighting change of the show.
Spike Marks
Tape marks on the stage floor showing performers where to stand. Invisible to the audience from a distance.
Get-In and Get-Out
The crew’s load-in time and load-out time. A show’s get-in for a complex production can be 8–14 hours.
The Pre-Show
Sound check, lighting check, performer warm-up, and final tech walkthrough. Usually 2–3 hours before doors.
The Plot
The technical documentation — lighting plot, sound plot, rigging plot — that specifies everything the show needs.
The Rider
The contractual technical and hospitality requirements of the production. The venue is responsible for fulfilling the rider.
Why It Matters
Producers who use this vocabulary get respect from the production team — and get quoted accurately rather than defensively.
