Application of Stage Machinery in Performing Arts from Two Perspectives of Traditional Theater and Show

[Summary] Traditional theaters emphasize standardization and serialization, with occasional innovations. In contrast, the development of performance stage machinery has evolved from scratch, demonstrating a continuous trend of innovation. Through the lens of Professor Wen Qinglin, this analysis compares traditional theaters (e.g., the "pinzi-shaped" stage and multifunctional theaters) with performance stages to thoroughly examine the evolution and current status of stage machinery in the performing arts industry.

1、Application of Stage Machinery in Theatre

Stage machinery is the stage equipment which is used to move and participate in the performance by mechanical engineering technology. In the theater, they show the distinct characteristics of standardized size, modular equipment, diversified function and standardized configuration.

The "pin" stage originated from the mechanical transformation of the Italian frame stage in Germany, and has become the mainstream structure mode of opera house. Its structure is scientific and reasonable, and its mechanical composition is quite complex. The key technologies are the driving mode of the equipment, the combination motion mode and the precision control.

The "pin-shaped" stage comprises two sections: the stage floor and the stage platform. The floor section includes a movable orchestra pit, main lifting platform, side vehicle platform, rear vehicle revolving platform, side compensation platform, side auxiliary platform, and rear compensation platform. The platform section features a fire curtain, stage curtain mechanism, false stage opening device, electric hoisting rods, lighting hoisting rods, side lighting brackets, rear stage hoisting rods, free single-point hoists, fixed single-point hoists, and side track cranes.

Notably, the positioning accuracy of electric hoists is typically maintained at ±2mm, while synchronization precision reaches ±3mm. A prime example is Harbin Grand Theatre, completed in 2013, which features advanced equipment including independently adjustable main lifting platforms, ballet stage panels, orchestra pit elevators, auxiliary side platforms, side stage carts, vehicle-mounted revolving stages, fireproof curtains, and curtain mechanisms with dual opening modes (side-opening and vertical lifting), along with lighting suspension systems and electric hoists.

II. Application of Stage Machinery in the Show

The show usually refers to the fixed program performance which combines the local characteristic tourism resources and folk culture. It usually has unique architecture, stage equipment and supporting facilities, showing strong personality and innovative spirit.

Take "Crane Ballet" in Singapore's Sentosa as an example. This production ingeniously combines mechanical devices and LED screens to create a mesmerizing spectacle of cranes dancing gracefully. Through the integration of lighting, video, and water effects, it crafts a romantically beautiful ambiance. Notably, the curved water patterns generated by controlled pressure variations symbolically mimic the cranes' wing movements, effectively avoiding the awkwardness often associated with mechanical wings.

 Another standout production is "Han Show" by Wanda Group. The show features three LED screens controlled by hydraulic systems and a rotating, adjustable seating area, offering two unique viewing modes: full front-facing or a combination of front and side views, delivering a fresh visual experience to the audience.

Consider the Xinjiang Grand Theatre's production of "Thousand Turns in the Western Regions" as another example. The play extensively employs aerial wire technology, enabling actors to move freely across the performance area. The ingenious integration of lifting platforms and water stages brings authentic aquatic effects into the theater. A specially designed horse-running machine precisely controls the speed and distance of the horses' gallop, while the water curtain shaping machine creates various patterns and text, combining romantic flair with practicality.

The design and construction of these stage engineering, research and development and innovation achievements not only promote the rapid development of the stage industry, but also become an important force in the inheritance and promotion of traditional culture.