Description
Description
The show-opening curtain
Kabuki is not an ordinary front drop. The fabric hangs in front of the stage, the audience is watching it, the effect is triggered—and the curtain is on the floor in under one second. The band is revealed. That single second determines the energy of the entire show.
We produce Kabuki front drops specifically for the drop mechanism—with the right fabric, weight distribution, and finishing so the curtain falls cleanly, straight, and evenly. That is the difference from a standard front drop: a Kabuki curtain must be engineered to fall.
How does a Kabuki work?
The fabric is suspended from a special Kabuki bar (or two bars for a dual release). The holders open simultaneously along the full length of the bar via radio signal, cable, or pull rope. The fabric loses its support at the top and falls straight down under its own weight, assisted by a weighted hem. Synchronization is everything—otherwise one corner may remain suspended and ruin the effect.
Finishing for the drop
- Eyelets along the top every 19.7 in (50 cm), precisely matching standard Kabuki bars
- Lower corner eyelets for securing the curtain before release so it does not swing
- Weighted bottom hem (recommended from 26 × 20 ft / 8 × 6 m) for a straight fall
- Kabuki pocket (optional, for dual release): a second bar for two-phase releases on long stages
- Special sewing on request: partial releases, split curtains, and combined effects
Material—Decor Blackback is the standard
Kabuki curtains need a certain minimum weight to fall cleanly. We therefore recommend:
- Decor Blackback, 260 g/m², B1—the standard choice. Heavy enough for a clean fall, opaque so the design remains high-contrast under any stage lighting, and B1 certified.
- Decor, 205 g/m², B1—lighter, with a less dramatic falling effect; recommended only when minimizing touring weight is essential.
- Special fabrics (on request)—mesh for glitter effects and translucent fabrics for backlight reveals.
Sizes
- 26 × 20 ft (8 × 6 m)—smaller festival stages and medium-sized halls
- 39 × 26 ft (12 × 8 m)—standard festival main stages
- 52 × 26 ft / 59 × 33 ft (16 × 8 m / 18 × 10 m)—XXL main stages and arenas
- 82 × 66 ft (25 × 20 m)—major events and tour-opening reveals
Workflow and consultation
A Kabuki is show design, not standard merchandise. We recommend a brief conversation before ordering to discuss the stage dimensions, release system (radio, cable, or stagehand), show cue, and storage concept. Simply send us an inquiry. Reorders using the same file are possible at any time.
Fire safety
Decor fabrics are B1-certified in accordance with DIN 4102-1, including when printed. We will send you the B1 fire-safety certificate on request.
Manufacturer information
Manufacturer: Stage-Backdrop. The address is provided in our supplier information.
Safety notice: Attach only to load-bearing Kabuki systems or trusses, and keep the drop zone clear when triggering the release. Keep the curtain away from hot spotlights and open flames.
Custom printed from your print-ready artwork. The listed price is the starting price from €79.00. The final price depends on the format, material, and finishing and is available on request—just tell us your desired dimensions and we will calculate it promptly.