Curtains
narrow stage curtains used to mask the sides of the stage (these curtains are where we get the phrase “break a leg”)
legs
an exit hidden from the audience on the stage for performers to use in an emergency
escape
a system of ropes, pulleys, and weights used to “fly” scenery onto the stage and off the stage from above
fly system
a prop or set piece designed to break or fall apart easily
breakaway
imaginary lines from the furthest seats determining what parts of the stage are visible
Sight Lines
the use of curtains, flats, or other scenery to “mask” the audience’s view of certain parts of the stage
an opening in the stage floor, used for special effects, such as an actor’s sudden disappearance
trap door
the use of automated machines to move set pieces often controlled by a computer
automation
the process of adding props and details to a set to “dress” it into something that looks real
dressing
the visual picture of a scene as seen by the audience
stage picture
the main curtain that separates the stage from the audience. it is often a bright color.
grand curtain
the areas to the sides of the stage that are concealed from the audience
wings
a system of weights used to balance and move scenery
counterweight system
the process of destroying the set and clearing the stage at the end of a production’s run
strike
the process of drawing out the designs for the set
drafting
a curtain that opens and closes horizontally, used to reveal or hide the stage or parts of the set
traveller
a partly see-through curtain used near the front of the stage for projections and scene changes
scrim
the system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights used to move scenery and equipment
rigging
a frame used to make the size of the stage opening (the “proscenium”) smaller to change the audience’s view
false proscenium
a drawing that shows the layout of the stage from above that is to scale (¼” in 1’)
ground plan
a horizontal drape used to mask the top part of the stage
teaser
a large curtain at the back of the stage used to create a background, often lit with various colors
cyc (cyclorama)
a horizontal pipe bar hung from the ceiling used for hanging scenery
batten
the decorative front part of a set often designed to resemble the front of a building
facade
a detailed drawing or painting showing how the set will look from the audience’s perspective
rendering