overcurtain

An overcurtain, also known as a drapery or theatre curtain, is a type of fabric hanging, typically used in theaters and other performance venues. It is usually made of heavy material like velvet or damask and hangs from the top of the stage. The overcurtain serves several purposes, including masking the stage from the audience, providing a decorative backdrop, and controlling acoustics. In some cases, it may also be used to conceal scene changes or to create a dramatic effect. Overcurtains can be operated manually or mechanically, with various systems for raising, lowering, or parting them. The design and material of an overcurtain can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of a theater and contribute to the mood and atmosphere of a performance. They are a traditional element in stagecraft, evolving over centuries of theatrical tradition.