Portable Stages & Risers Tips
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Shopping for Portable Stage Platforms
Shopping for portable stage platforms can be an overwhelming process because of the number of options available. However, consumers who have a grasp of their basic needs may find the process to be quite simple. When shopping for portable stage platforms it is important to consider deck surface, size and height.
Common deck surfaces include hardboard, polypropylene and carpets. Hardboard is an economical surface but polypropylene helps to create a non-slip surface. Portable stage platforms are more expensive but they also are typically more attractive and provide greater sound absorption than other surfaces. The size should also be carefully considered because the deck surface must accommodate the current needs and should also account for future uses for the stage. Finally the height of the portable stage platform must be taken into account. Stage platforms used by children tend to be higher than ones intended for use by adults because a higher stage helps to make smaller performers more visible to the audience.
Options for Podiums and Lecterns
Two primary factors to consider when comparing podiums and lecterns are the type of lectern as well as the inclusion of built in electronic equipment. There are two basic types of podiums and lecterns. These types are the tabletop variety and the floor variety. Tabletop lecterns are smaller and can be placed on a table. The advantages to this type of lecterns are that they allow for greater focus on the speaker and are easier to move and store. Floor lecterns can be adjustable height or fixed height. This type of lectern provides a more professional appearance than tabletop lecterns.
The inclusion of built in electronic elements should also be considered when purchasing a podium or lectern. Lecterns without built in electronics will be less expensive and are adequate for small rooms or rooms with a public address system. Larger venues or venues without a public address system should include a lectern with built in electronics. Some of the electronic elements to consider are speakers, amplifiers and microphones.
Understanding Portable Stage Risers
Portable stage risers are essentially portable platforms that provide multiple tiers. A portable stage riser is often preferred over a standard platform for chorale performances when there is a large number of chorus members who are similar in height. Having members stand on the tiers helps to ensure all are visible to the audience.
The main factor to consider when selecting a portable stage riser is whether a seated riser or a standing riser is required. The main difference between these two types of risers is the depth of the tier levels. Seated risers are typically deeper to accommodate chairs while standing risers are less so. If chairs will be used on the stage, seated risers are probably necessary while standing risers will be adequate for performances which do not require the performers to be seated.
Selecting a Portable Concert Stage for Children
Height is key when selecting a portable concert stage for children. Height is an important consideration because children are smaller in stature than adults and will therefore require a higher concert stage to ensure visibility to all audience members. However, care should be taken to avoid selecting a stage which is high enough to prevent a hazard to the children. Common heights for portable stages are 8”, 16”, 24” and 32” although stages may be available in other heights.
The deck surface should also be considered when selecting a concert stage for children. Polypropylene may be ideal because it provides a non-slip surface which does not muffle sound. However, this will likely be more expensive than stages with a hardboard surface so the budget must also be well thought out.
Setting Up a Portable Dance Stage
Important factors to consider when setting up a portable dance stage include the size of the stage, the surface of the stage and the load capacity of the stage. The size is essential because it should be large enough to accommodate all of the dancers throughout the performance. This is especially important if there is a large number of performers or if they will be performing movements requiring a large footprint.
The surface of the portable dance stage is also key. Stages may be hardboard, polypropylene or carpeted. The ideal surface is one which will prevent the performers from slipping without detracting from the performance. The load capacity must also be considered in respect to the number and the size of the performers. The portable dance stage should have a load capacity which is adequate for the amount of weight the stage must support during the performance, and should also account for whether the load is static or dynamic.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Sheri Ann Richerson |
