Premium theatre backdrop hire for your stage production

Theatre backdrop hire solutions. Set the scene and bring your stage production to life.

There is a lot to consider when deciding on the choice of fabric for a stage backdrop as the material used can have a big impact on the look and feel of the backdrop curtain. Not only that, but different materials have different properties when it comes to lighting and sound, so this also needs to be taken into account.

What is a theatre backdrop?

A stage backdrop is the large piece of fabric that hangs at the back of the stage or set, preventing the audience from being able to see behind the scenes. The backdrop is also used to bring the stage to life, helping to set the scene for the production – some are plain while others are patterned, printed or painted.

For example, a production of the Elf might use a backdrop that is painted to resemble New Yorks Central Park while a Christmas Nativity might use a backdrop printed with the inside of a stable and the star of Bethlehem.

For corporate events, backdrops may include logos of sponsors or the host company. Not only used in theatres, backdrops provide valuable advertising space at conferences and trade shows; any logos that are printed on the backdrop will appear in event photographs and help with your marketing efforts.

Backdrops are usually made from flame retardant materials and are sewn without fullness which means it is not pleated or tied. However, they are not just limited to the curtain at the back of the stage – cycloramas are large curtains that are often rounded and sit at the back or sides of the stage. They are used to create the illusion of sky, open space or large distance at the back of the stage setting. You can use backdrop materials to create cycloramas.

Why are theatre backdrops used?

Theatre backdrop hire can have a big impact on the tone and atmosphere of an event depending on your choice. Whether you’re hosting a play, a conference or a live music show. It’s important to select a stage backdrop that will enhance the performance. As well as being painted or printed, backdrop curtains can also be combined with special lighting effects – this includes projecting videos and moving images on to the curtain. Backdrops can also be used to ramp up the action and create excitement among the audience – they can suddenly drop into place to hide objects on stage or drop to the floor to reveal something.

Theatre backdrop materials

Backdrops are available in a variety of materials and provide a good surface for projecting light effects and images.

The most popular material is a knitted polyester fabric which is ideal for frontlit applications and folds into an easily transportable package. These are ideal for textile banners, wall graphics, seat covers and use in tension frame systems. Unlike cotton, polyester is wrinkle resistant so you can be sure of a clear and crisp printed image.

Blackout Stage Backdrops are a perfect choice for exhibitions, presentations and performances where it is important to prevent light showing through from behind the backdrop. You can design a blockout backdrop just as you would a standard backdrop, but it will contain a black, rubberised liner on the reverse which prevents light shining through. 

Of course, if you are looking to create a traditional stage environment then there is no better option than black muslin cotton. If you are going to paint your backdrop fabric then consider using a thicker muslin or canvas base material so that it can hold the paint.

Lightweight veil backdrops

Veil Backdrops are extremely fine and lightweight, making it a great option if you want to create stunning visual effects using the light that passes through the material. This is a popular choice for theatre, dance and artistic performances where the set designer wishes to add depth and movement to a scene.

Choosing theatre backdrop hire solutions

Choosing a theatre backdrop can be a little overwhelming. There are so many options and you want to be sure to create the right effect for your event. Consider the purpose of your event, your audience and the atmosphere you wish to create. It’s easy to personalise a stage backdrop to create exactly what you need – your imagination is the only limitation! 

Backdrop hire for your production

No1 in the UK for theatre backdrop hire, Cover it up can provide a variety of themes as well as off the shelf drapes for your stage or venue drape requirements. Our highly skilled team of creatives can produce any size backdrop to meet your exact needs.

All our stage and theatre backdrop hire fabrics meet European flammability requirements and come in a wide range of colours and materials, perfect for any kind of stage backdrop.

Speak to Cover It Up today, and find out what our friendly team can do for you. Our experience in the drape hire industry is unparalleled and our affordability, hard to beat. With a huge selection of event drapes, backdrop drape hire, event drape hire and , all at affordable prices, what are you waiting for?