OCG tech definitions

Ambient Noise

Background sounds in a scene, like wind or birds.

Backlight

Light coming from behind, highlighting subjects.

Backcloth

Painted cloth at the back of a stage.

Barn Doors

Adjustable flaps to shape lighting beams.

Birdie

Miniature lantern for soft light pools.

Crossfade

Smooth audio transition between scenes.

Cyclorama

Background device creating illusions of space.

Cyc Flood

Floodlight for lighting backdrops.

Downlight

Light fixture installed into a ceiling.

Echo/Reverb

Sound wave reflection for auditory depth.

Fade out

Measuring of an outgoing cue in lighting design

Fade up

Time between the start of an incoming transition in lighting design

Floor light

Light positioned on the floor for uplighting effect

Followspot

Profile lantern moved to follow a performer on stage

Frost

Polyester filter scattering light to soften beam edges

Gauze

Stage curtain for dramatic effects, made of open weave fabric

Gobo

Stencilled disc used in lighting fixtures to create patterns

Intensity

Brightness or dimness of lighting on stage

Moving light

Fixture allowing control over direction, color, shape, and intensity

Profile light

Consists of lens, lamp, reflector, shutter, and gate for close light control

Smoke machine/hazer

Device producing artificial smoke or fog for theatrical effects

Soundscape

Combination of sounds to create mood and atmosphere

Straw (wash)

Natural and warm pale yellow lighting gel

Wash

General fill of light and color evenly across the stage

Wings

Areas off stage left or right where actors wait before going on stage or exit through when going off stage.