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Kabuki Reveals
Kabuki Drop Defined
The Kabuki Drop, also referred to as a Curtain Reveal, is a special effect technique used both Theatrically and for Special Events. A drape or other light-weight fabric is released from above and dropped on cue to unmask a performer, space or product.
The process utilizes an electro-mechanical Kabuki release system suspended from pipes, truss or architectural hang points. The audience is surprised, and their attention is refocused on the reveal.
Over the years, Drape Kings’ many customers have successfully used our Kabuki curtain reveal system to introduce performers, products, cocktails, buildings and works of art. The Kabuki Product Reveal possibilities are endless.
A la cart or full service; it’s your choice. By utilizing compact electro mechanical solutions, basic kabuki drop systems rigs can fit in a pull along suitcase and are easily shipped anywhere. And from a basic push button system to a complex DMX controller, we have your options covered.
Drape Kings also offers a wide array of both stock and custom fabric curtain drops. Choices range from a simple black drape to elaborately printed custom banners. The amount of custom fabric colors and types are limited only by your imagination.
Kabuki Drop Origins
The Kabuki Reveal originates from classical 1600’s Japanese Kabuki Dance Theatre which is known for its stylized dramatic entrances, exits and mystery. The traditional “Furiotoshi” Kabuki drop system utilizes the rolling pole method. A simple bamboo pole with small prongs act as drop points for the Kabuki drape.
Kabuki Systems utilized an early manual method of a rolling bar or rope to roll the pipe by hand. When the pipe was rolled, and the rods pointed down, the kabuki drop curtain fell off the pipe and dropped to the floor. Along the way these systems were improved upon, and the manual rope was replaced by a motorized one with remote control. This system works but can be bulky, and the drops are often available in only fixed straight lengths, thus making them harder to transport and limiting circular or curved mounting.
Kabuki Cells Types
Most of today’s Kabuki Curtain Drop Systems employ what is known as Kabuki Cells or Kabuki Solenoids. These systems are controlled by daisy chained power/control cables with a remote controller. The most modern systems offer control via DMX protocol while still having a manual override feature. These cell type systems employ electronic controlled solenoids or magnetic release versions.
Drape Kings is proud to offer the Magnet Schultz Electro Kabuki System that uses electro-magnetic technology to operate their cell solution. These systems can also be used to drop props, nets of balloons or banners.
Another popular theatrical method used is a Double Curtain Drop. This method uses two sets of Kabuki Cells. The first set releases and unfurls the Drape panel. Several fabric options can be used such as a branded banner, blackout curtain or scrim. Once that effect is completed, a second set of Kabuki release mechanisms are triggered to drop the hanging curtain to the floor on cue.
Kabuki Drop Rentals Include:
- 10 Kabuki drop units and two channel control box
- 15amp AC supply cable
- 25-50′ speakon cable
- 3-10′ jumper cables
- Drop rings
- 4 channel controllers are available
- Drape panels
- Custom options available upon request
To consider when renting Kabuki Reveals:
- What are you revealing, hiding or highlighting as it may be?
- What is the size? (height, width, depth)
- How large do you envision the Kabuki Curtain Drop to be?
- How will we hang the Kabuki Cells? Pipe, truss or architectural hang points such as a beam or roof truss?
- Describe the size of the hanging apparatus.
- Does it exist? or will it need to be installed by Drape Kings or other?
- Will this be a single or multiple drop?
- How far is the control position from the last cell(s)?
- Will it be controlled manually or via DMX lightning protocol?
Finally, after choosing the cells, the quantity and locations we’ll layout the wiring and power requirements to finalize your system.
Tip: Kabuki Cells are typically spaced 2’ to 5’ apart depending on the curtain drop size, construction and how the top is finished. If the cells are further apart the drop will smile (droop) unless the construction and fabric type lends itself to being stretched more.
Based on the width of the curtain drop, height, weight and size, you can estimate how many cells you’ll need to use. Don’t worry that the drop doesn’t have grommets to attach to the cell. Drape Kings clip-to-ring solution can attach to most drops and eliminate the need for prefixed fabric grommets.
Whether you’re looking for a full-service solution or DIY, contact Drape Kings for you next event or to add a customized kit to your own theatrical equipment arsenal.