Dropping Effects
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Drop Bag
A drop bag is used to release lightweight items onto the stage. It usually consists of a piece of cloth, fixed at one end to a piece of wood which is securely rigged on a flying bar. The other end of the piece of cloth has a piece of wood attached, along with half of a pin hinge, which mates with the other hinge which is screwed to the fixed piece. The two hinges are held together with a pin, which can be released with the sharp pull of a piece of suitable string, or can be held together by a solenoid mechanism, which releases when an electrical current is passed through it.
Snow Bag
Traditional solution - can be used anywhere with flying bars.
Shredded (flameproof) tissue paper or artificial snow can be used - this method also works with confetti or artificial flower petals or leaves.
A cloth with a number of slits or holes cut in it is suspended between two flying bars. When one bar is gently lifted and lowered repeatedly, the snow falls through the slits.
Snow Drum
DMX-Controlled rotating metal drum with holes through which paper snow falls.
Snow Machine
Very noisy and large machine used mainly for outdoor events.
Solenoid Release Box
Wooden box with a hinged lid which is held closed by an electromagnetic solenoid. When energised, the solenoid pulls a pin which releases the lid, and drops the items (e.g. petals, or with rehearsal and risk assessment, a prop that the actor can catch, or which lands near the actor). Considerable care must be taken to ensure the box is securely held closed and that it cannot release accidentally.
Kabuki Drop
A lightweight (e.g. silk) cloth is suspended by a series of rings, each of which is held in place by a solenoid. When energised, the solenoids all release and the cloth drops to the stage.
Petal / Confetti Drop - Machine
See also Theatrical Effects page
More information coming soon