With the use of special effects, computer animation and digitalization in movies today, it can be hard to really appreciate the amount of effort that went into live theatre performances in the past. In fact many people would say that theatre has an impossible standard to live up to as far as the younger generations, and it really can’t be stressed enough that theatre is an art form that must be treated on its own.

The stage play of JM Barrie’s novel Peter Pan is one of many examples of theatre productions that used special effects to create an illusion of the extraordinary. Peter Pan, of course, must fly in order for the story to reach its full effect, and the simulation of flight in the play comes about through the use of theatrical rigging.

Theatrical rigging has applications that go beyond theatre. Garth Brooks revolutionized the country music scene in the early ‘90s, in part due to his incredible live shows. It was not uncommon for the singer to come flying into onto the stage, over the heads of the audience, as he went into his first song. In this he was following in the footsteps of other great performers, creating a super charged atmosphere by using old yet still awe inspiring techniques. Off stage, theatrical rigging can be used in various occupations where ease of movement through the air is needed, and of course who can forget that ultimate example of how to really impress a girl in the chapel scene of The English Patient?

Whatever you find you might like to use theatrical rigging for, it is important to understand that the system is much more than a bunch of ropes and pullets. Okay, well in materials it is not much more, but what we are talking about here are the many safety considerations that come into play with this kind of endeavour. Before purchasing theatrical rigging, make sure that you are aware of the following:

The weight of the people who may be using the device. Both maximum and minimum weights apply to certain systems.

The rapidity in which the person will rise. Again, a very light person may fly up quickly, and it is essential to learn the proper techniques with the equipment to avoid sudden muscle and skeletal stress and sharp contact with surfaces.

Individual flight is possible with the use of theatrical rigging, and there are several circumstances that may call for the use of this equipment, above and beyond the stage play. Whatever flights of fantasy you may take, though, remember that safety should always be your first consideration.

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