DROPT CURTAIN Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "dropt curtain" refers to a stage curtain that is lowered or brought down at the end of a performance or between acts to indicate a break in the action or to signal the conclusion of a scene. This common practice in theatrical productions involves a large and typically heavy fabric curtain that is suspended from a rod or overhead structure at the top of the stage. The dropt curtain, as its name implies, can be lowered by means of a mechanical system, such as a pulley system, ropes, or motorized equipment, controlled by a stage technician.
The use of a dropt curtain serves multiple purposes in the realm of theater. Firstly, it functions as a visual barrier, shielding the backstage and set changes from the audience's view. This allows for the rearrangement of props, scenery, and other stage elements without interrupting the flow of the performance. Secondly, the dropping of the curtain can create an element of suspense or anticipation for the audience as they eagerly await the subsequent scene or act. Lastly, the dropt curtain is an effective tool to signify the end of a play or act, providing closure and allowing the cast and crew to take their final bows.
In summary, the dropt curtain embodies a significant aspect of stagecraft, serving as a practical and theatrical device that demarcates transitions, separates acts, conceals backstage activity, and adds an element of showmanship to theatrical productions.
Common Misspellings for DROPT CURTAIN
- drop curtin
- drop curtain
- droped curtain
- sropt curtain
- xropt curtain
- cropt curtain
- fropt curtain
- rropt curtain
- eropt curtain
- deopt curtain
- ddopt curtain
- dfopt curtain
- dtopt curtain
- d5opt curtain
- d4opt curtain
- dript curtain
- drkpt curtain
- drlpt curtain
- drppt curtain
- dr0pt curtain
Etymology of DROPT CURTAIN
The term "dropt curtain" originates from the combination of two words: "drop" and "curtain".
1. Drop: In the theatrical context, a "drop" refers to a large piece of fabric, often painted, that hangs vertically on stage. Drops are used to reflect different settings, such as landscapes or interiors, and are typically lowered into view or lifted out of sight during scene changes. The term "drop" comes from the Middle English word "drop", meaning "a hanging down".
2. Curtain: A "curtain" is a piece of cloth or other material that hangs in front of a stage and is used to conceal the backstage area or to separate different portions of the stage. The word "curtain" originated from the Old French word "cortine", meaning "little court" or "enclosed space".
