|
|
Mr. Muggle Special user 999 Posts |
I'm not sure if this is overkill or not, but has anyone either read or experimented with different color backdrops and how they can add or subtract from your show? What color do you use and did your act or dress determine that color? I've read that the color of a room will impact the mood of those in it; I wonder if the same is true for those looking at a backdrop.
I'm trying to tweak as many things as I can to improve the show; I just never gave my backdrop much thought and the audience is always looking at it. Anyone have any idea?
"Now you're looking for the secret... but you won't find it because you're not really looking. You don't really want to know the secret... You want to be fooled." - The Prestige (2006)
|
NJJ Inner circle 6437 Posts |
I always go with black not because of the mood but because of the mood that the OTHER colours can express. Black works for ANY mood. e.g. bright pink might work for a kid's show but not a mentalism act. I can lend my backdrop to other people, use it for any gig or purpose.
How about we make a MOOD backdrop like a mood ring? Before the show, all the audience members rub their bodies up against it and it changes colour to match their mood! |
Gideon Sylvan Special user Deerfield, IL 541 Posts |
I don't have a backdrop just yet, but am planing on one some time soon. I will go with Blue because my trunk is blue, and they are both important, but not primary props. The rest of the show stands out from them. Black wouldn't work for me because I wear black pants, and that's a different trick all together.
You know you are a magician when you have boxes full of lecture notes you have never read, but still are excited about going out and buying more.
www.gideonsylvan.com |
DeWayne Veteran user Greencastle, PA 361 Posts |
I know there are a lot of black backdrops out there, but if you or your volunteers wear black or dark clothing you become floating heads. I don't know what type of shows you do, but a lot of people wear dark colors to banquets!
My curtain is royal blue (almost the excact color in Gideon's avatar). I make it a point to wear no royal blue or have props that are royal blue. Blue is considered a "cool" color so it won't blind the audience like brighter colors. For what it's worth, that's my 2 cents. -DeWayne |
bsears Inner circle Cincinnati, Ohio 1040 Posts |
Yes, I agree with the concerns of using black. Most of my attire would not contrast with it. My backdrop is red.
Psychology would dictate that red will arouse the emotions and create energy while blue has a calming effect. I read tons of studies on this while in college. The effect is easily demonstrable but effects people to varying degrees. Just something to consider. Books on theatre and set design could also be helpful. |
Mr. Muggle Special user 999 Posts |
Black won't work for my act either, I've been thinking of either red or blue. I'll have to go to the local library for some more information on the psychology of color. I understand that color effects everyone differently I'd like to "stack the deck" in my favor anyway possible.
"Now you're looking for the secret... but you won't find it because you're not really looking. You don't really want to know the secret... You want to be fooled." - The Prestige (2006)
|
BradBrown Regular user Florence, KY, USA 183 Posts |
A backdrop doesn't have to be a solid color. I haven't tried it yet, but I've been playing around with the idea of having a custom printed backdrop made.
Your backdrop can be pretty much anything you can imagine; your logo, the sky, a circus tent, a castle wall, or whatever would work for your act. Of course, you wouldn't want anything busy or distracting, but this does open up interesting possibilities. |
bsears Inner circle Cincinnati, Ohio 1040 Posts |
Good point Brad. There was someone advertising these (custom made backdrops) in the Linking Ring a year or so ago. As longs as it added rather than distracted from the show, it could be nice.
|
Mr. Muggle Special user 999 Posts |
I didn't see it in the Linking Ring, but will go back through my past issues. A custom printed backdrop might be good, if the price is right.
"Now you're looking for the secret... but you won't find it because you're not really looking. You don't really want to know the secret... You want to be fooled." - The Prestige (2006)
|
BradBrown Regular user Florence, KY, USA 183 Posts |
I started thinking about this when I saw that an internet printing company I was working with made backdrops. The web address is http://www.psprint.com/printing_products......ting.asp.
I was happy with the printing work they did for me, but I haven't gotten a backdrop from them. So, I can't make any recommendations about the quality of their backdrops. I haven't shopped around, so I don't know how their prices measure up. Just as an example, their price for a 7x10 foot canvas backdrop with top and bottom pole pockets is $835. |
Captain Jack New user Sacramento 53 Posts |
When I need to create a different mood, I use lighting and color gels. For small shows (parlor/close-up) I use pin spots, color bulbs in the lamps at the venue, or just have someone (usually my assistant) adjust the ambient lighting when needed.
My backdrop looks like crushed velvet from a distance and more tie-dyed (sp?) up close.
Every man be a fool for 10 minutes each day. The trick is not in exceedin' the time limit!
Properly warned ye be, says I! |
The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » The little darlings » » Curtain color for your backdrop; a mood adjustment? (0 Likes) |
[ Top of Page ] |
All content & postings Copyright © 2001-2024 Steve Brooks. All Rights Reserved. This page was created in 0.02 seconds requiring 5 database queries. |
The views and comments expressed on The Magic Café are not necessarily those of The Magic Café, Steve Brooks, or Steve Brooks Magic. > Privacy Statement < |