Curtains for Theatre stages, Opera and Movies

Curtains - Various types and structures

Another essential component in the construction and realization of a curtain is the fastening system. A curtain can be fastened and tightened sideways or upwards, so it can generate different modes of opening, based on pulley mechanisms (mechanical) or electrical components (motors). There are models that open laterally or vertically. The curtain is an essential element of the stage space, because it has the role of separating the stage from the auditorium. This delimitation is important and it has been used since ancient times, from the first appearances of theatrical events, since it sets a boundary between the stage and the space intended for the audience.

There are several types of curtains, which can be made using multiple and varied techniques. Depending on the characteristics of the stage, the curtain will be created taking into account all the necessary details. Its positioning and design are fundamental factors that influence the whole construction. Until it reaches the finished form, according to the design previously agreed in the discussions with the scenographer or architect, the curtain goes through several processes and through specific stages. The material can be stretched or hung, straight or in folds, and the way it is structured has a considerable effect on the metal structure and the whole design

The type of curtain opening can be horizontal (some being installed on the left and right sides of the stage) and others open vertically, by lifting, being anchored up and positioned immediately behind the front stage.

In addition to these two main categories, there are also other types of curtains, which differ in the way they open:

Greek – It opens horizontally, to the sides, being split in the middle. It can have a simple and straight design or overlapping vertical folds;
Venetlan – It is operated vertically, its lifting starts from the middle and continues to the sides, making successive folds, distributed on different levels;
Austrian – It opens vertically and makes a series of waves using the folds of the material. It is operated simultaneously in several points and it is distributed symmetrically over its entire width;
Guillotine – It is the classic type of curtain, with vertical lifting, which can be operated by a manual mechanism with the help of pulleys and counterweights or by an automatic system with integrated motor;
Roman – The opening system is similar to the Austrian and Venetian versions. The difference between this model and the other two is the arrangement of the material, which does not contain folds;
Butterfly – It opens to the side, being divided into two halves. Each of them is raised by a system located in the upper corners – therefore, its appearance is similar to the wings of a butterfly

Black curtain - A modern option

Although the classic colour used for theater curtains is red, you can choose various colours, shades, and textures, taking into account the stage space you want to create. Black is a special colour in many ways, but you have to be careful about a few important things. It is usually used to create a black box, in order to separate the backstage and the stage. However, if you want a special curtain, you must consider how it reacts in the presence of a spotlight. The light beam can propagate differently, depending on the colour of the material - for example, red is a common option, not only because of its elegance, but also because it does not absorb light and does not become straining to the viewer's eyes when the lights are being turned off.

There are many materials that can be used to make a curtain. Generally, a thick fabric (such as velvet) is chosen. However, if the scenographic project requires the use of other types of textiles, there are also other options available, such as cotton, linen or translucent foil. Customizing the curtain is a special process - it can be chemically prepared, pressed, quilted, painted (canvas type) and fireproof according to certain standards

Choose an opaque curtain, ideal for any stage structure!

If you want to decorate a theater or a stage space, choose an opaque curtain, ideal for the chosen area. Select the right size, consider all aspects related to the specific environment and communicate all these details to a professional team of experts. If you want an outdoor curtain, you need to consider other factors, such as wind and anchoring arrangements of the structure.

How long does it take to create a curtain?

Making a curtain can vary depending on the concept and requirements of the set designer. Usually, the process can take between 2 and 4 weeks, but if the chosen materials are imported from abroad, the necessary time period may increase.

Greek type curtain - gray