Overhead lighting is used to illuminate both aisles and seats during times when the audience is entering or leaving the auditorium. Generally referred to as "house lights," this lighting can come from any type of architectural lighting fixture. It is usually controlled on a dimmable system so the lights can fade up or down slowly to accustom patrons to the changes without hurting their eyes. This type of lighting should be even and diffused to minimize shadows that might make noticing uneven surfaces on the flooring difficult.
These strips go by many names but are most commonly simply referred to as "aisle lights," and they consist of strings of small lamps in a protective seal that are placed along the outside edge of each aisle. The protective coating allows them to hold up to heavy foot traffic without becoming damaged and also keeps out dirt and spilled food items.
Step lights are placed along the front edge of each step, either on top of the stair tread or below it, shining down on the step below. They may consist of string lights that are the same as aisle lights, particularly if they are on the top of the tread, or they may be rope lighting or unprotected small lamps if they shine downward onto the step below. The primary purpose of these lights is to let patrons know where each step begins and ends to minimize falls.
Seat lights may be used in conjunction with or in place of aisle and step lights. These units are placed on the side of the end seat in each row, near the ground, and aim at the aisle next to the seat. They usually have a metal shield or set of vents that keep the light aiming onto the aisle and make it less noticeable for those who are seated next to it.