A curtain warmer is a specific type of lighting used in theatre productions before the performance begins.
Understanding Curtain Warmers
Based on theatrical terminology, a curtain warmer refers to the lights that are focused on the curtain so that the audience has something to look at before the show starts.
In this context, the "curtain" typically refers to the large drape that obscures the stage from the audience.
The Purpose
The primary purpose of curtain warmers is to engage the audience's attention and provide a visual focus point during the waiting period before the play or performance officially commences. They help to create atmosphere and signal that the show is about to begin without revealing the stage itself.
Key Characteristics
- Specific Placement: Lights are directed onto the main theatre curtain.
- Timing: Used before the show starts.
- Function: Provides the audience with something visually interesting to look at.
How They Work
The lights used for curtain warmers can vary in color, intensity, and pattern depending on the desired mood or the theme of the upcoming show. They might involve simple static colors, subtle shifts, or even projections onto the curtain surface.
In Practice
Curtain warmers are a common element in theatrical lighting design. They contribute to the overall audience experience by managing expectations and setting a preliminary tone for the performance that is about to unfold behind the curtain.
Here are some ways curtain warmers might be used:
- Creating a warm, inviting glow before a comedy.
- Establishing a dramatic or mysterious feel with cooler colors or shadows.
- Displaying patterns or textures that hint at the show's themes.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| What it is | Lights focused on the theatre curtain. |
| When used | Before the performance begins. |
| Why used | To give the audience something to look at. |
| Where seen | The main stage curtain in a theatre setting. |
