Follow-spots are most effective when their positions enable vertical lighting angles of 30O to 60O . This can be achieved by placing follow-spots in special follow-spot booths, on lighting bridges above the auditorium, on the proscenium lighting
bridge
or on the
stage
balconies.
In theatres which lack adequate follow-spot positions, makeshift positions have to be improvised. These can be at the back of an upper gallery, in a side box, or on a scaffold tower erected especially for this purpose.
The follow-spot position must have good
visibility
of the
stage
and must be spacious enough to accommodate both the follow spot and its operator, enabling him or her to
Good communication with the
stage
manager is essential and is usually done through an intercom system with a two-way headset worn by the operator.
The intense light of a follow-spot is very conspicuous on
stage
so that the slightest jerk of the light
beam
draws the attention of the audience. Smooth follow-spotting requires much dexterity and sensitivity on the part of the operator, who has to be familiar with the manner in which the actors move on the
stage
so as not to illuminate them in fits and starts.
While smoothly following an actor, the operator may be required to adjust the
beam
size and focus, change the color, or dim the light out. It takes a skilled operator who knows all the tricks of the trade to be able to
preset
his spot on target so that when the light goes up it is positioned exactly where the actor is standing. Operating style is particularly important when two or more follow-spots work together, usually
coordinated by the
stage
manager attempting to achieve a unified effect.
The combination of state-of-the-art intelligent luminaires with advanced control systems, like the Auto Pilot system and the leader effect of the Animator control board, offer a viable alternative where adequate follow-spot positions are not available.
