Stage Curtains For Theatres: A Thorough Guide

Stage Curtains for Theatres

A theatre is a form of art that transcends boundaries and captivates audiences with its enchanting performances. As the centrepiece of every theatrical production, the stage holds immense importance in creating a captivating and immersive experience. One of the key elements that contribute to the magic of the stage is the stage curtains.

From enhancing the production’s visual appeal to providing privacy and controlling sound, stage curtains are integral to any theatre’s infrastructure. This comprehensive guide will explore the commonly used stage curtains, the best fabrics for creating these threads, and the factors affecting their cost.

Stage Curtain Types

• The Front Curtain: Also known as the grand or main drape, the front curtain is the most prominent and recognisable curtain in a theatre. It is the curtain that separates the audience from the stage before and after the performance. The front curtain is typically made from luxurious materials such as velvet or velour to create a sense of grandeur. It often features intricate designs, patterns, or embossing to add visual interest. The front curtain is raised to reveal the stage at the show’s beginning and lowered to conceal it during intermissions or at the end of the performance.
• Side Stage Curtains: These curtains are also referred to as wing curtains or masking curtains as they are located on the sides of the stage. They conceal equipment, gear, rigging, and technical hardware in the stage’s wings. They effectively hide elements such as lighting bars and curtain tracks from the audience’s view. Moreover, masking curtains designed as swivel arm carriers or rotating side curtains effectively cover backstage areas to keep them hidden from the audience’s perspective. These curtains are designed to be durable and functional while seamlessly blending into the overall aesthetic of the theatre.
• Cross-Stage Curtains: These curtains are primarily used to control the width of the performance space and create a frame around the stage. They help focus the audience’s attention on the centre of the stage while concealing any offstage elements. Wipe curtains, traveller curtains, tableau, Austrian, contour, Scrim/Gauze, and Guillotine can all be classified as cross-stage curtains.
• Backdrop Curtains: Also called scenic or painted backdrop curtains, backdrop curtains are used to set the background or scenery of a performance. These curtains are typically large and span the entire width and height of the stage. Backdrop curtains can feature intricate hand-painted scenes or digitally printed designs to create immersive environments. Backdrop Curtains are made from lightweight materials that allow easy hanging, movement, and changes during the performance.
• Acoustic Curtains: As the name suggests, acoustic curtains are designed to control sound within the theatre. These curtains are made from specialised sound-absorbing materials that help reduce echoes and reverberations on stage. They are commonly used in performance spaces where sound quality is critical, like theatres, concert halls, and recording studios. Acoustic curtains are often strategically positioned around the stage and auditorium to enhance the acoustic experience.

Best Stage Curtain Materials

When it comes to stage curtains, selecting the suitable material is crucial as it can significantly impact the overall look, durability, and functionality. Here are some of the best stage curtain materials commonly used in theatres:

• Cotton Theatre Curtains: Cotton is a popular choice for theatre curtains due to its versatility and affordability. Cotton drapes are lightweight, easy to handle, and offer excellent light-blocking capabilities. They can be easily dyed or painted to achieve desired colours or designs, making them suitable for various stage productions. Cotton curtains also have good breathability, which can be advantageous in environments where temperature regulation is essential. However, it’s worth noting that cotton curtains may require frequent cleaning and maintenance to keep them in optimal condition.
• Polyester or Synthetic Stage Drapes: Polyesters and other synthetic materials, such as nylon or acrylic, have recently gained popularity for stage curtains. These fabrics offer several advantages, including durability, wrinkle resistance, and colour retention. Polyester curtains are known for their excellent light-blocking properties, making them ideal for controlling stage lighting. They are also less prone to fading and shrinking compared to natural fibres. Their low maintenance requirements make them a practical choice for many theatre productions.
• Mohair Theatre Curtains: Mohair is a luxurious material used in theatre curtains for decades. It is a natural fibre derived from the Angora goat, known for its exceptional durability and flame resistance. Mohair curtains have a distinctive texture and a rich, lustrous appearance that adds elegance to the stage. They are highly resistant to crushing and maintain their shape well over time. Due to their regal and opulent aesthetic, mohair curtains are often used for grand drapes or main curtains. However, it’s important to note that mohair curtains can be relatively expensive compared to other materials.

What Determines the Price of Your Theatre Drape?

The price of theatre drapes can vary based on several factors. Here are some key determinants that influence the cost of theatre drapes:

• Material: The type of fabric used for the drapes plays a significant role in determining their price. High-quality materials, like velvet, silk, or mohair, are more expensive than synthetic fabrics or lower-grade materials. The cost of the fabric and any additional treatments or finishes can impact the overall price of the theatre drape.
• Size: The size and quantity of the theatre drapes required for production can affect the price. Larger or custom-sized drapes may incur higher costs due to increased material usage and additional labour involved in their production.
• Design and Complexity: Intricate designs, patterns, or custom artwork on theatre drapes can contribute to their price. Specialised techniques such as embroidery, hand-painting, or digital printing can increase the cost of the drapes. Complex shapes or unique configurations may also require additional labour and expertise, impacting the final price.
• Hardware and Accessories: Theatre drapes often require accompanying hardware and accessories, such as tracks, rigging systems, tiebacks, or decorative trimmings. The cost of these additional components will add to the overall price of the theatre drape. Higher-quality or specialised hardware and accessories may also come at a premium cost.
• Customisation and Personalisation: If the theatre drapes need to be customised or personalised to meet specific requirements, such as size alterations, colour matching, or incorporating logos or branding, it may incur additional costs. Customisation often involves additional labour, materials, and specialised production processes, which can impact the price.
• Supplier and Expertise: The reputation, expertise, and experience of the supplier or manufacturer can also influence the price of theatre drapes. Established companies with a track record of delivering high-quality products and services may charge higher prices than less experienced or lesser-known suppliers.

Working closely with reputable manufacturers, discussing your specific needs, and understanding the pricing components will help you make informed decisions and find the right balance between quality, functionality, and cost for your theatre drapes.

What are the curtains used in stage?

In theatre, different curtain types serve distinct purposes:

• Main Curtain/Grand Drape: Divides stage and audience.
• Valance: Decorative top curtain.
• Traveler Curtain: Slides for scene changes.
• Legs/Tormentors: Masks stage sides.
• Border/Teaser: Covers overhead equipment.
• Backdrops: Scene-setting backgrounds.
• Scrim: Translucent/opaque effects.
• Cyclorama (Cyc): Background projections.
• Blackout Curtains: Blocks light.
• Reveal Curtains: Quick scene changes.
• Gauze: Soft diffusion for dream sequences.
• Specialty Curtains: Artistic effects.

Each curtain type contributes to the stage’s visual and functional aspects in theatre.

What is the purpose of curtains in theatre?

Curtains in theatre serve to:

• Conceal scene changes.
• Set atmosphere and tone.
• Guide entrances and exits.
• Control focus and attention.
• Build suspense and anticipation.
• Indicate time and setting shifts.
• Support lighting effects.
• Cover set changes during intermissions.
• Present curtain calls and bows.
• Ensure safety and backstage control.

Curtains enhance the performance’s visual impact, manage transitions, and contribute to storytelling.

What material is used for stage curtains?

Stage curtains are crafted from various materials to suit their roles:

• Velour/Velvet: Plush and rich; often for grand drapes.
• Muslin: Paintable cotton for backdrops.
• Commando Cloth: Blocks light for masking.
• Scrim: Translucent or opaque effects.
• Chiffon: Delicate, used for dreamy scenes.
• Canvas: Sturdy for backdrops and floor cloths.
• Polyester: Durable, wrinkle-resistant.
• Satin: Glossy, for decorative and specialty use.

Each fabric serves distinct purposes, catering to diverse visual and technical needs in theatre.

How do you measure for stage curtains?

Measuring for stage curtains involves these steps:

• Height: Measure floor to desired curtain height.
• Width: Measure the area width, add for fullness.
• Overlap: Factor in extra width for pleating.
• Track/Rod: Measure span and consider curvature.
• Mounting: Measure floor to track/rod height.
• Clearance: Measure wall to stage edge for depth.
• Fabric: Choose based on aesthetics and function.
• Consult: Consider professional advice for accuracy.
• Order/Install: Place orders, follow guidelines for installation.

Take the next step in elevating your theatrical production by exploring the range of stage curtains at Imported Theatre Fabrics. As reputable manufacturers, we specialise in delivering high-quality curtains that meet the unique needs of the theatre industry. Give us a call at 03 9583 9559 to discuss your project requirements.