BASIC DRAPERY TERMS

  • A. FRONT CURTAIN/house/main act curtain–normally 12″ upstage of proscenium opening. Used to close off performing area from the audience. Usually heavy velour on bi-parting traveler tracks. Can be motorized or rope-operated.
  • B. VALANCE–typically used to mask front curtain track system. Appropx. 25-35% of proscenium opening height usuallay first curtain upstage of proscenium opening. Typically deadhung or tacted to a nailer board or tied to a batten.
  • C. MID-STAGE (Upstage) traveler–used to divide the stage and provide backdrops for presentations. Allows for two-act performances.
  • D. MASKING BORDERS–used to mask the overhead rigging, track and lighting systems on the stage area. Usually tied to a batten.
  • E. REAR TRAVELER–used in full stage performances to mask back wall. Or when open reveals lighted sky drop or painted scene. Usually on a bi-parting traveler.
  • F. SKY DROP or CYCLORAMA–usually a seamless muslin fabric. Uses lighting to create special effects for multiple scenes.

Windows Measurement Form
Stage Measurement Form
Stage Diagram

In addition to these components there are many other configurations or special designs for your performance area. These would include specialty curtains such as:

  • Austrian curtains
  • Festoon curtains (usually motorized)
  • Scrims
  • Leno drops
  • Rain curtains
  • Pivot side legs and more . . .

Contact Us