A scrim has a unique quality in the world of theatre curtains in that it can appear or disappear by shifting lighting. The “scrim” is a type of curtain constructed of thin, open netting, called “sharkstooth scrim,” and it can be used to create a variety of special effects. Unpainted muslin and scrim are also frequently used as backdrops to create lighting effects. Backdrops can be made of muslin and painted to provide scenery. “Backdrops” are theatre curtains that primarily hang in the rear of the stage, but they can also be used mid and downstage to make the stage appear shallower or to allow stage crew to change props or scenery behind them. The legs frame the side of the theatre scene. In most situations, three or more legs are placed stage right, and three or more are placed stage left. Legs are constructed from light-blocking velour material, and are almost always black. They are designed to block the audience’s view of the backstage areas know as the wings. They are situated on either side of the stage and run parallel to the grand drape. “Legs” are side theatre curtains that are narrow and tall. Borders frame the top of the theatre scene. Like legs and other theatre curtains, borders are constructed from a heavy material that blocks the intense theatre lights. Borders block the scenery and lights in the fly loft. “Borders” are short and wide theatre curtains spanning a stage’s width. Styles of these types of theater curtains can vary from layers of legs, borders, travelers, and backdrops, to simple U-surround theater curtains. “Side curtains”, “back curtains”, or “rear setting curtains” describe any curtains that are behind the grand drape. Side curtains, borders, and legs are all types of masking curtains. Masking curtains are used to conceal rigging, lighting equipment, and hardware from the audience. Depending on the style of the curtain and how it opens, it maybe called an “Austrian Curtain,” “Waterfall Curtain,”“Tableau Curtain,” “Guillotine Curtain,” or “Contour Curtain.” Nearly all of these curtains require an electric motor to operate. More ornate Grand Drapes may open by lifting vertically. Regardless of the operating system, travelers are relatively inexpensive. Travelers may operate manually, or they may feature motorized operation. Traveler curtains are also known as “draw curtains” or “bi-parting curtains.” They are constructed in two halves that split at the center and open by each half traveling horizontally off stage. “Travelers” are the most common moving curtains found on a stage. Note: “grand valance” may be also referred to as “grand teaser,” and “valance” may also be referred to as “border” or “teaser.” The “grand valance” (or just “valance”) is situated in the front of the grand drape, and it is usually constructed from the same material. The “grand drape” is also known as the “main curtain,” “front curtain,” or the “house curtain.” This is the closed curtain seen by the audience before the show begins, again at intermission, and after the show ends. These theatre curtains provide a decorative barrier between the audience and stage. Proscenium curtains include the main curtain and the main valance. They also are available in many different fabric options and custom designs.Īlthough the possibilities for custom stage curtains are endless, there are three basic types of theatre curtains: proscenium curtains, masking curtains and backdrops. Theatre curtains may be designed for a wide range of uses on the stage. Stage curtains can also be used to create special effects. In simplest terms, theatre curtains (or stage curtains) are large fabric pieces used to conceal, in a decorative fashion, the various parts of the stage from the audience. What follows is a brief overview of the types of theatre curtains available. In many ways, buying stage curtains might seem like learning a new language! Nevertheless, choosing theatre curtains need not be intimidating. There is even terminology that may be completely unfamiliar to you. And it’s no wonder why! Because there are so many varied options, a myriad of different types of curtains, and countless fabric choices from which to choose, anyone who is looking to buy stage curtains (especially for the first time) might be totally overwhelmed. When shopping for theatre curtains, you might feel just a bit confused.
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