At FIRST4MAGNETS® , we love seeing the creative and practical ways our customers use our products, and this recent application in the Queen Mother Theatre’s production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was truly inspiring. Using our 20mm dia x 15mm thick Electromagnets, Chris and his team at the Bancroft Players engineered a seamless and dramatic scene transition that left the audience in awe.
The Challenge: A Smooth and Striking Cloth Drop
In theatre, the impact of a well-executed set transition can make all the difference in immersing the audience in the story. For this production, Chris needed a reliable and invisible mechanism to hold and then instantly release two layers of cloth—a black outer layer concealing a white cloth beneath it—to create a dramatic reveal at the perfect moment.
The Simple Yet Effective Electromagnetic System
Chris and his team devised an elegant yet highly effective solution using our electromagnets. The system was controlled by two simple switches:
- The First Switch released five electromagnets holding the black cloth ‘trough’ on one side, which contained the rolled-up white cloth.
- The Second Switch released five additional electromagnets positioned at the top, allowing the white cloth to unfurl seamlessly.
However, during testing, they discovered that the penny washers used in conjunction with the electromagnets weren’t holding as securely as expected due to the way they were positioned. The team quickly adapted by adding five extra electromagnets to compensate for the sheer force, ensuring a firm grip on the washers. Additionally, more magnets were used to prevent any sagging in the two cloth layers, achieving a crisp and professional look.
The Final Performance: A Flawless Reveal
The result? A perfectly timed, smooth fabric drop that enhanced the visual storytelling of the production. The audience experienced a stunning transformation on stage, achieved with precision engineering and the power of electromagnets.
Watch the Magnets in Action!
Chris generously shared a video of the system in action, showcasing the ingenuity behind this clever theatre hack.
Why Electromagnets?
Electromagnets are an ideal choice for theatre productions because they offer instant, controlled release, ensuring split-second precision when needed. They also remain discreet, blending seamlessly into the set design while providing reliable holding power.
Inspired by Chris’s Work? Create Your Own Magnetic Theatre Solution!
Learn more about electromagnets
How do electromagnets work? Electromagnets work by generating a magnetic field when an electric current flows through a coil of wire wrapped around a core material, usually iron. When the current is switched off, the magnetic field disappears, allowing for controlled attraction and release.
What are the advantages of using electromagnets over permanent magnets? Electromagnets can be turned on and off, allowing for controlled operation, whereas permanent magnets provide a constant magnetic field. This makes electromagnets ideal for applications requiring temporary holding and instant release.
Can electromagnets hold heavy objects? Yes, the strength of an electromagnet depends on factors such as the number of wire coils, the current supplied, and the core material. We offer a range of electromagnets with varying holding capacities to suit different applications.
Do electromagnets require maintenance? Electromagnets are generally low-maintenance but should be inspected periodically for any damage to the wiring or power supply to ensure optimal performance.
Can electromagnets be used in other theatre applications? Absolutely! Electromagnets are widely used in theatre productions for quick set changes, automated props, and special effects. Their versatility makes them an essential tool in stagecraft.
If you’re working on a theatre production and need a custom holding and release solution, our range of electromagnets could be the perfect fit. Whether it’s for set transitions, special effects, or stage mechanics, FIRST4MAGNETS® has the expertise to help bring your vision to life.
Need advice on your project or want to share your application of our products? Get in touch with our team today!
A huge thank you to Chris and the Bancroft Players for sharing their innovative use of our electromagnets – we love seeing our products being put to good use!
