Props, Scenery, Costumes and Makeup: Seeking Ideas

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Seeking Ideas

Printed From: Community Theater Green Room
Category: Producing Theater
Forum Name: Props, Scenery, Costumes and Makeup
Forum Discription: For how-to's and where-can-I-find
URL: http://www.communitytheater.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=5428
Printed Date: 10/31/25 at 6:35am
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Topic: Seeking Ideas

Posted By: rabbifrank
Subject: Seeking Ideas
Date Posted: 12/22/12 at 12:37pm

Let me introduce myself first. My name is Frank and I direct a small community theater in Georgia.

In a show planned for next Fall I am in need of a ragtime type piano that will burst into simulated flames from the top at one point in the music. The piano must be able to play and the set-up must not be permanent.

I have thought of white silks with amber lights, fans, etc. but thought someone might have the perfect idea.

Thanks for help in advance.

Replies:

Posted By: jt7724
Date Posted: 12/29/12 at 3:29pm

I would say that in terms of fake flames on stage, silk and lights is the best option available. If I was working on this piece I would probably look in to temporarily unscrewing the top and replacing it with a plywood replica that can have holes cut into it in order to fit as much of the blower/light mechanism as space permits down into the body of the piano. It's possible that this will mess up the sound quality so it may also be a good idea to have the actual music be a recording or otherwise from a piano off stage.

Posted By: rabbifrank
Date Posted: 12/29/12 at 9:55pm

Originally posted by jt7724

I would say that in terms of fake flames on stage, silk and lights is the best option available. If I was working on this piece I would probably look in to temporarily unscrewing the top and replacing it with a plywood replica that can have holes cut into it in order to fit as much of the blower/light mechanism as space permits down into the body of the piano. It's possible that this will mess up the sound quality so it may also be a good idea to have the actual music be a recording or otherwise from a piano off stage.

Thanks so much for your suggestions. I agree. Thinking rope lights and computer fans here. Effect only lasts 15 seconds.

Another friend suggested forced fog from a holey tube (PVC) lit with amber lights but I'm not sure that would work unless it is a dissipating mist. Willing to try all methods.