Create These Stage Effects with the Right Theater Drapes and Backdrops
Plays, musicals, and other stage productions rely on riveting storylines and compelling performances in order to win the hearts of audiences. However, the visual aspect of the show is also of utmost importance. How beautiful the costumes are, how delicately the props were crafted, and how exquisitely decorated the stage set is—all of these can have a significant impact on the overall appeal of a show.
One other way to add spark to a stage production is through the use of special effects. Although elaborate effects can be generated through the use of equipment like laser lights, fog machines, and rain machines, there are actually other ways to make a show more visually exciting. The secret? Special stage backdrops and theater drapes.
Photorealistic Backdrop
Hand-painted backdrops have been around for ages, but with the emergence of large-scale printing techniques in recent years, it is now possible to print enormous photorealistic backdrops that are truly stunning. It’s really like bringing your setting to life on stage.
The great thing about photorealistic backdrops is that you don’t even have to print them out yourself. In many cases, you can actually rent one from a company that specializes in them. Los Angeles-based backdrop company Grosh, for instance, rents out this beautiful photorealistic Chicago city backdrop and this very lifelike backdrop featuring a Hawaiian beach. They have a lot more, so make sure to check them out.
Rain Curtains
Whether you’re planning to stage the musical Chicago or you’re preparing to belt out lines of New York, New York a la Frank Sinatra and Liza Minelli during your winter show, a rain curtain can add a touch of sparkle to your production.
When we say rain curtain, we’re not talking about one of those special rain-making machines that use water. This one’s a simple curtain made of shiny, narrow strips of metallic fabric. They are quite simple, but when combined with stage lights, they can create a dazzling display of shimmering and bouncing lights. They’re perfect for song numbers and those celebrity-themed musicals.
Cyclorama
A cyclorama is a type of panoramic background that is positioned in a semicircle. Some cycloramas are made from rigid materials, but the most popular ones are drape variants because they are easier to install and remove. Such cycloramas are typically made from fabrics like plain canvas and muslin.
“Cycs,” as they are popularly called, are often used to depict the sky on stage. With the help of lighting, positioning, and concentration, various results can be achieved for different purposes. Cycs can be used in dance performances, musical recitals, or theatrical dramas.
Scrim
Another great tool at your disposal is the scrim. This is also a type of curtain, but it is usually positioned in front of a backdrop or a stage set. Under the right lighting conditions, this scrim can be made to appear opaque in order to conceal the things behind it. This can be achieved by illuminating the front of the scrim from a steep angle while keeping the area behind it completely dark. This seemingly opaque screen can then be magically “dissolved” by lighting the scrim from the back and illuminating the background or the stage set behind it.
Theatrical backdrops and theater drapes are great stage elements that you can use to enliven your production. Coupled with great set design, impressive lighting and sounds, and a rousing performance, you’ll be able to mount a show that is worth a standing ovation.
Such cool ideas! These would be great for my sons school plays. Thank for the information!