Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Score • Places Call • AFM (American Federation of Musicians)

Front of House

Term from Performing Arts industry explained for recruiters

Front of House refers to all the public areas and operations in a theater, concert venue, or performing arts center that audience members interact with before, during, and after a show. This includes the lobby, box office, seating areas, and concessions. The term is used to distinguish these public-facing areas from "backstage" or "back of house" where performers and technical crew work. People working in Front of House roles focus on audience experience, safety, and comfort rather than the artistic performance itself.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Front of House operations for a 500-seat theater

Supervised FOH staff of 15 ushers and concessions workers

Coordinated Front-of-House services for major Broadway productions

Typical job title: "Front of House Managers"

Also try searching for:

House Manager FOH Manager Audience Services Manager Venue Operations Manager Theater Operations Manager Patron Services Manager

Where to Find Front of House Managers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where you're understaffed for a sold-out performance?

Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss prioritizing essential services, having an emergency staff call list, cross-training existing staff, and maintaining strong relationships with temp agencies or part-time staff pool.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to improve customer experience and increase revenue?

Expected Answer: Should discuss examples of improving concessions efficiency, implementing new ticketing systems, training programs for staff, and creating special packages or amenities for patrons.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle difficult patrons while maintaining professionalism?

Expected Answer: Should explain de-escalation techniques, knowledge of venue policies, when to involve security, and how to maintain positive atmosphere for other guests.

Q: What systems do you use to coordinate between box office, ushers, and concessions?

Expected Answer: Should describe communication methods, staff briefings, use of radios/headsets, and how to maintain smooth operations between different departments.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key responsibilities of Front of House staff?

Expected Answer: Should mention ticket taking, seating assistance, program distribution, maintaining cleanliness, basic customer service, and emergency procedures.

Q: How do you prepare the venue before opening doors?

Expected Answer: Should discuss cleaning checks, stocking programs/concessions, checking emergency exits, preparing will-call tickets, and staff briefing.