Q&A for How to Build a Theatre Flat

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Question

How do I build movable chairs or steps for kids in the theater?

Community Answer

Build hollow stairs with wheels on the bottom. Attach wheels to the bottom of chairs to make them moveable.

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Question

What is the approximate cost for a standard flat?

Community Answer

Depending on materials used it can be less than 10 dollars generally. You can reduce the cost by using scrap materials, or reusing old flats. You might be able to find a theater that will let you borrow a few or use theirs for a mention in your production credits the more resourceful, the less you will spend.

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Question

If I am making frames for theater flats and facing them with overlapped featheredge boards instead of wood or canvas, should I still use plywood corner blocks, straps and keystones for stability?

Community Answer

Yes. The facing of the flat may change according to the current show, but the flat structure should remain solid and square. Use 1/4” Luann to face the flat, this will help with squaring. Then attach your decorative featheredge boards to it.

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Question

How do I connect several theater flats together?

Community Answer

The standard method in the theater is to use loose pin hinges. Once in place you use rear supports to the floor and cover the gaps in front with canvas or other flexible material.

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Question

How do I build a theater flat with a cover that's freestanding and able to slide onto the stage from the wings?

Community Answer

You have the base be two pieces of wood sticking out slightly, with wheels on the bottom of them, like a freestanding whiteboard used in schools.

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Question

How long does it take to build a theater flat?

Community Answer

It depends on your level of skill and the tools at your disposal. It is easier and quicker to make several flats at the same time.

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