I am considering adding a different levitation to my program. One which will use a split backdrop. However I do have a concern and hope someone can help me. My concern is that the curtains will move as the assistant rises if the opening is too close and could be seen if it is too wide. Any ideas?
Thanks,
Bruce

Opening has to be just right, that is why set-up time takes time.

Pin down, or really weight down the bottom corners.

Blair Marshall
"ShaZzam!"

Overlapping spandex panels; mylar strips; deceptive designs; blackart lights... all these are "tricks of the trade" in this area. So you have lots of options and just need to decide what's right for you.

My new curtains are spandex. I don't know what took me so long getting there (46 years?). We do also use mylar. I have never used anything but a panel system.

One of the real added "helps" is selective weighting. Weights at the bottoms are normal. (I prefer chain. It moves but does not telegraph movement.) Selective weighting in mid-curtain (about 4' off the ground) helps control telegraphing lower curtain activity higher up on the curtain.

Try it!

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

Thanks for the reminders! I had at one time milar strips in front of my old backdrop set up. I am hoping that my new curtains, supposedly "quadripple" velvet (which I question,) will be heavy enough. Trial and error to see what works best.

Thanks again!
Bruce

Bruce,

By "heavy" do you mean hanging straight or opaque?

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

An other system is to weigh down a tall slender frame behind the curtain and attach same with velcro only allowing three inches to move, along the opening. And make sure the lighting works to your advantage.

A more square frame can be used when you want to go south, through the curtains, without them shaking.

That should work and can be done on location with EMT.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

By heavy I mean that they are so thick, when they hang a gentle breeze wont move them. I might not need to use weights. These are regular black velvet curtains from a local theater and very high quality. Perfect for black art lighting.

I do have a question of what EMT means.

I also like the idea of the small frame to help hold the curtains just around the opening. Again, trial and error for now.

Thanks again.
Bruce

Bruce,

EMT is electrical metal tubing also called conduit. It's cheap (about $3/ 10' piece), easy to work with, very available, and no loss to leave behind. You can get all kinds of joints etc. for it, drill holes in it, paint it or bend it. I keep the joints and the curtains. I use the 3/4" size mostly.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

My velevet drapes have weighted chains for my lev. I also pin them just under the apparatus with a large saftey pin like the ones you use for linking safety pins. (available at most fabric stores.) I also use a second drape about two feet back. I had this made to fit and is the same velvet. I also have some commando cloth backings if I need them. spandexdidnt have enough fullness for me.
I have my soft goods made at rose brand NY they do a great job and by the time I would have achieved the same quality I actually saved money going through them.

Mike,

That sounds just like those folks in Washington. Spend, Spend, Spend! LOL

I agree that for some purposes the Lycra is too light. Fortunately it doesn't matter in my show.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

PS --- Hope you folks are geared up for another great Magi-Whirl 2008. Keep us posted.

Thanks everyone for your suggestions.
I have used conduit before to support a portable curtain and off stage area. Great to work with.

Happy Hollidays to everyone!
Bruce