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In stage lighting, a 'fade' is a gradual increase or decrease of the intensity of light projected onto the stage. The term fade-in refers to gradually changing the lighting level from complete darkness to a predetermined lighting level. A fade-out (also known as fade-to-black) refers to gradually decreasing the intensity of light until none is shining on the stage. A ''crossfade'' is when lighting levels are gradually altered from one setting to another. A fade-in is sometimes called a ''build'', and where this terminology is used, a fade is understood to be a fade-out.
In nearly all theatrical lighting designs, multiple lighting instruments are used to illuminate the stage at any one time. The instruments are controlled by a lighting technician from a dimmer board or lighting control panel. A fade refers to a change in illumination for the entire stage. Thus, the intensity of many lighting instruments are often altered with a single fade, especially with newer digital control systems like DMX, which uses MIDI to synchronise lighting and/or music.
The terms ''fade in'', ''fade out'', and ''fade to black'' were borrowed by Hollywood, and are used in the formal structure of screenplays.