A curtain can add drama to your backyard stage.
A backyard stage is a place to encourage creativity in your children and other family members. The stage can be used to set neighborhood theatrical or musical productions in a safe, enclosed environment. As you build a stage in your backyard, consider the ways it will be used and the amount of time you expect it to stay up.
Platform
For young children and kids who want to produce theater in the round productions, a simple wooden platform placed on the grass can be a versatile stage. A square platform of 10 by 10 feet should provide adequate space. If your children are small, keep the platform low and round the edges to reduce the risk of dangerous falls and injuries. During a backyard performance, chairs can be set up on all sides of the stage for an intimate theater experience. When not using it for performances, you can switch the stage into a floating patio and set up chairs and a table for an outdoor eating space. The stage can serve as a play area for coloring, reading and enjoying the sun during the summer months. Make this type of stage out of a simple wood frame sanded and polished to avoid splinters.
Traditional
If you have the space and the resources, you can create a traditional stage with a curtain in your backyard. To create a sense of drama and a greater distance from the audience, build a raised square platform about 3 to 4 feet high with access steps on the back. About 5 feet from the front of the stage, set up a curtain rail by extending poles from either side of the stage and laying a cross bar on top. Use a drill to screw on basic wall-mount curtain rod holders to cradle the cross bar. Although a traditional heavy velvet curtain is unsuitable for an outdoor performance venue, you can create a similar look by buying dark red or green material in a heavy cotton; use rings that will slide easily across the pole to prevent ripping. If you have the space, you can add one or two sets of steps in the middle or sides of the stage front to create access to aisles.
Retractable
For smaller backyards or yards that see a lot of use, build a stage that retracts under the deck or a storage shed. When your children want to put on a performance, you can pull the stage out and set up chairs on the deck and the lawn to create an instant theatrical venue. To make the stage retractable, you can build a simple platform and attach wheels to the sides; look for wheels that are uni-directional for the easiest in-and-out movement. If possible install wheels that have built-in brakes to keep the stage still when in use, or use reinforcements such as cinderblocks or bricks.
