subject: The Basics Of Theatrical Equipment Supply [print this page] No matter the show or the stage, the actors in a theatrical show set the tone for the entire play. But theatrical equipment supplies add the magic. With simple and often affordable items like stage makeup, lighting, props, and special effects, a production goes from dramatic reading to crowd-grabbing spectacle. Dont overlook these key elements of theatrical supply.
Makeup
In everyday life we turn to makeup to enhance and beautify on the stage we rely on it to transform. Stage makeup can sweeten the complexion of an actress playing a young girl or alter her face into the green and bumpy angles of a famed wicked witch. Investing a full set of professional-grade makeup like Ben Nye stage makeup an industry favorite can give you the power to mold your actors visually into the characters they become on stage.
Special Effects
Imagination goes far during a show, but why ask your audience to pretend when simple machines can create another world for you? Fog, snow, rain, bubbles, and more can be created with nothing more than some water and an electrical plug thanks to these easy-to-use theatrical equipment supply staples.
Lighting
At its core, lighting is paramount for a basic reason: what good is your show if the audience cannot see it? But beyond basic floods, the lighting options available at theatrical equipment supply stores can create a mood on stage with their glow. From dim mysterious lights to red and flashing dangerous ones, you can elicit emotion with well-designed lighting schemes.
Props
An 18th century tavern lit by flickering candles or a rowdy bar ally brawl that ends with shattered wine bottles props are simple items that can create authenticity within your scenes. While a donated chair or Goodwill tables can create a living room, many stage props should be sourced from a theatrical equipment supply store to ensure they are safe for use on stage. Breakaway items, electric flames, artificial fire, fogged mirrors, and other items are designed to work in these situations.
Backdrops
Whether created on propped up sheets of plywood or massive, suspended yards of canvas, backdrops allow the audience to understand the context of the show instantly. Creating these scenic pieces in-house is a labor of love for many theater troupes, and theatrical equipment supply stores sell paints specially created to stand up to the bright lights of the stage.