Stage curtains are a great way to add ambiance and character to any stage. They can also be an integral part of the set design for some productions. Choosing where to buy them can seem like a daunting task, but we’re here to help!
In this guide, you’ll find out where the best places are to purchase them as well as information about their different types and uses. Whether you’re looking for traditional curtains or more modern alternatives, there’s something here for everyone!
Places Where to buy Stage Curtains
Local fabric store: You may be able to find the curtains you need at your local fabric store. This is a great option if you’re looking for something specific, such as traditional stage drapery or blackout stage curtains specifically.
Online: If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally, there are plenty of online retailers where it’s easy and convenient to purchase curtains.
Stage Production Supply Store: If you’re in the market for some stage drapery, your local production supply store likely carries something to meet your needs. There are plenty of these stores where you can buy all sorts of supplies for theatre and theatrical productions, so they should have a fairly large selection!
Custom Curtain Company: If you’re looking to get a custom curtain made, then it’s time to call in the professionals. There are plenty of companies that offer this service, so check them out and find one that will best suit your needs!
Garage sales or consignment shops where you can find used curtains that are in good condition and cost a fraction of the price. They may not be as durable, but they’re perfect for school productions.
Thrift stores where you can find used curtains that are in good condition and cost a fraction of the price. They may not be as durable, but they’re perfect for school productions.
What are Stage Curtains?
A stage curtain is a large piece of fabric, usually black or dark red that hangs in front of the proscenium. They’re typically used at theater productions to hide backstage activity and create an illusion for the audience.
Stage curtains are traditionally made from heavy cotton velvet, but they can also be very luxurious with silks, velvets, and more expensive fabrics.
More details on the curtains: Stage Curtains can be made from heavy cotton velvet or silk with a great deal of detail in embroidery design, appliqués, sequins, beads, and more. They often have gathered hems so they pronounce even when hanging straight down.
Types of Stage Curtains
Rigid curtains: these are made out of a single layer of fabric that’s stretched across the opening.
Draperies: Which can be hung from one or two rods depending on where they’re being used. These too come in many different colors and shapes to suit your needs!
Felt backdrops, designed for theater and stage. Curtain tracks, which are perfect for those who want to have a little more control over where their curtains go and how they hang.
Portable backdrops: These can be thrown up in minutes using tension rods or clips on the wall. They’re not as durable but make great temporary setups!
Uses of Stage Curtains
1. Rigid curtains can be used to divide up a stage for different scenes. Draperies are often hung in front of the set and then closed off when not needed, while felt backdrops might come out during special effects or transitions. Curtain tracks are great if you need to organize where your curtain goes on any given day!
2. Stage Curtains can also be used to hide any backstage goings-on. This is especially helpful for theaters because they often have a lot of space behind the curtain that needs to get covered up! Stage curtains are perfect, as you don’t have to worry about them moving or looking like part of the set from onstage.
3. And if you’re feeling adventurous, curtains can also be used as the set! I’ve seen some cool productions where a play is staged behind the curtain and then it gets pulled back to reveal what’s happening.
4. This usually looks more effective than actors just talking into space or having them stand in front of a blank backdrop. In this case, I’d recommend using lightweight curtains, since they’re not too heavy to get pulled back and forth.
5. Stage Curtains can also be used for theater lighting! Some theaters use a light on the front of the curtain that shines through it onto the stage so actors have enough light during performances. The best way to do this is with a white curtain with a lamp on the front of it, which would make it easier for light to shine through.
6. Many theaters use black curtains because they’re more efficient with their lighting and save money in the long run by not having to replace bulbs as often. They also filter out some of the natural light that is found outside so actors can have an easier time performing.
7. The curtains that I recommend for theaters are the Muslin Curtains because they’re lightweight and won’t get too hot if you use a light on them. They also come in an array of colors which means that you can match it to your theme or play as well!
Exploring the Different Types and Where you can buy Them
Different Types of Curtain Fabric- There are many kinds of fabric used for stage curtains, so you must know what they’re made out of before choosing one. Fabrics include silk, polyester, cotton, and lace.
Different Uses for Stage Curtains- Use these curtains to customize the atmosphere of your stage productions or to create a sense of depth on the set design. Consider them an integral part of some sets as well!