Operate follow spot for theatre and live productions
URN: SKSTTL23
Business Sectors (Suites): Theatre and Live Productions – Technical
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on:
2025
Overview
This standard is about operating a follow spot to meet production requirements. This could be during rehearsal or during a live performance.
This standard covers operating follow spot according to cue and plot, in smooth continuous motions and dealing with any problems.
This standard is for anyone who operates a follow spot during rehearsal or productions for theatre and live productions.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
- operate follow spot according to cue and plot in a way that supports artistic performance
- operate follow spot to required quality standards during performances
- operate follow spot in smooth, continuous motions in line with plot requirements
- use back up procedures to deal with problems during performance without causing disruption
- report problems and make suggestions for future performances
- replace faulty light sources in line with health and safety and handling requirements
- keep records of problems and actions
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
- the importance of operating follow spots in a way that supports the artistic performance and how to do so
- the importance of consistency and how to achieve it
- follow spot operation and how to achieve the quality requirements specified
- likely problems that may occur during performance and how to deal with these whilst minimising disruption
- who to report problems to and when
- the importance of noting problems that have occurred and finding ways of avoiding these in future performances
- how to replace faulty light sources and the health and safety and handling requirements that must be followed, including the safe isolation of follow spots
- the importance of record keeping
Scope/range
Scope Performance
Scope Knowledge
Values
Behaviours
Skills
Glossary
Links To Other NOS
External Links
Version Number
3
Indicative Review Date
2028
Validity
Current
Status
Original
Originating Organisation
ScreenSkills
Original URN
CCSTTL45
Relevant Occupations
Technician, Assistant Technician , Technical Supervisor , Technical Manager, Head Technician, Theatre Technician, Stage Technician, Production Technician, Technician Crew , Lighting Technician
SOC Code
Keywords
operate follow spot; follow spot; theatre and live productions;