What is FOH? Let's Look into Its Role in Events

Hello EastPro event lovers!

Who here often attends events but just heard the term FOH or Front of House? FOH is one of the essential elements in events, whether it's a show, concert, corporate event, or business conference. As per the name, the Front of House team is at the front. However, they often go unnoticed despite their critical role in events. The FOH team who is behind the scenes ensures the event runs smoothly. That’s why FOH is also a crucial element for a successful event. Let’s find out about what FOH is and its role in an event.

What is FOH?

FOH or Front of House is the team responsible for the primary control of sound systems, lighting, and multimedia in an event. In other words, FOH manages the technical aspects of an event. They are called Front of House because this team is usually positioned in front of the stage, often at the same level with the audience.

The FOH team tasks include:

• Setting up and operating the sound system
• Managing the lighting system
• Handling multimedia (video, visual elements, etc.) during the event
• Monitoring and resolving technical issues that arise
• Handling emergencies that may occur

Besides events, FOH also exists in other industries. For example, in hospitality, restaurants, and other service industries. In this context, FOH is the front-line service staff, such as receptionists, greeters, waitstaff, cashiers, etc. This time, we'll only discuss the event-related FOH.

Events Which Involve the FOH

Events typically involve many parties and teams. Each of them is playing an essential role and working together so that the event will be successful. FOH is one of these teams, acting as the event's control center. Not all events involve FOH crew, usually only large-scale events such as:

• Business conferences
• Shows: concerts, music festivals, other performing arts
• MICE events or large corporate events
• Sports events
• Events featuring musicians or bands

The Role of FOH in Events

Who are the people in the Front of House and what are their roles? Let's check it out!

1. Soundmen / Sound Engineer

Soundmen or Sound Engineers are responsible for controlling the sound system, setting up and operating various technical equipment to get the clear and ideal sound for an event. They also manage certain sound effects, for example, during the opening, main event, or closing. Technically, they use audio mixers to mix radio signals and adjust outboard equipment to get the perfect sound from the speakers.

2. Cameramen

Cameramen are responsible for capturing stage performance moments to be broadcast on screens. They use live cameras to photograph and record the entire event or its highlights. This team collaborates with the multimedia team managing the event.

3. Lightman / Lighting Engineer

This team manages and controls the lighting to match the event's atmosphere and theme, making the event feel more alive, festive, and spectacular. From stage lighting to light effects, everything is handled by the Lighting Engineer. They also operate effect consoles to align with the event's design vision.

4. Show Director or Stage Manager

The Show Director leads the event or show and manages all supporting aspects to ensure it runs smoothly.

5. Video Engineer

Video operators are responsible for managing video or image media from live cameras operated by cameramen to screens such as LED videotrons or projectors. They also insert visual material from the multimedia team as needed for the event or show.

6. Multimedia Designer

This team arranges all the artistic visuals displayed and ensures that every broadcast material aligns with prior simulations. The multimedia team manages all visual materials for the event.

FOH as the Event Control Center

In an event, FOH can be considered the control center. The FOH team ensures all technical elements run smoothly. They are fully responsible for all audio equipment, sound settings, lighting management, live camera broadcasting, and artistic visual arrangement, ensuring everything goes as planned. Thus, FOH plays a vital role in the event's success. If depicted, FOH's position in an event faces the stage, either behind the audience area or in the middle of the audience area. It looks something like this:

Source: id.quora.com

With this layout, FOH specialists can clearly see and hear everything on stage, making it easy to give commands, manage the main speaker system, operate control panels, and other equipment.

Well, now you understand what FOH is. If you attend a concert or show and see a team with various technical equipment, laptops, etc., in front of the stage or in the middle of the audience area, that’s the FOH.

EastPro FOH Equipments

With an understanding of what FOH is as well as its roles and responsibilities, you will find it easier to organize an event.

Planning an event but unsure how to handle FOH effectively? Don't worry. For corporate events, MICE events, or even music festivals, you can trust EastPro Event Organizer. EastPro is an event organizer in East Jakarta with experience in various events for corporate, state-owned enterprises, and other institutions. EastPro, with a responsive and professional FOH team, has managed multiple launching events, corporate gatherings, awards, exhibitions, and music festivals. We are ready to ensure your event runs smoothly and successfully. Contact us for consultation and make your event a captivating one!