FollowSpot

A follow spot, or followspot, is a high-intensity stage lighting instrument designed to illuminate a single performer as they move across the stage. It is a specialized tool used in live theatre, musical productions, and dance performances to create emphasis on a specific actor while the rest of the stage remains relatively dim. The instrument is typically mounted in the lighting rig above the stage or placed at a dedicated follow-spot position and is operated by a trained technician during a show.

Operation and control are central to the follow spot’s function. The operator tracks the performer by adjusting the lamp’s pan and tilt to keep the person in the beam, while also varying beam size, intensity, and color to maintain visibility and contrast with the surrounding lighting. Many systems include an iris to narrow or widen the beam, a shutter to control timing, and a color mechanism such as a wheel or gel to alter hue. In modern venues, some follow spots are motorized or remotely controlled, allowing precise, repeatable cues and smoother movement.

Light sources and optics have evolved over time. Traditional follow spots used incandescent or xenon arc lamps with rigid reflectors to produce a bright, focused beam suitable for long throws. Contemporary versions may use tungsten-halogen, discharge, or LED sources, offering improved efficiency and cooler operation. The optics are chosen to provide a relatively hard-edged beam that can be dimmed and shaped for close tracking of performers.

History and usage notes indicate that follow spots emerged with the development of centralized stage lighting and remain a core tool for directing audience attention, despite broader adoption of automated and LED lighting options.