Pipes that can be lowered and raised, and are used to hang scenery in the air until it is needed are called ________

The correct term for pipes that can be lowered and raised to hang scenery is "battens." Battens are typically long, horizontal pipes used in a theatre’s rigging system, allowing for the suspension of various elements, such as backdrops and lighting. They provide flexibility in how scenery is managed on stage; they can be raised out of sight when not in use or lowered for easy access when needed.

Other options refer to different concepts in theatre setup. Drops refer to large pieces of fabric, often painted, that are hung vertically and typically used as a backdrop. Tormentors are flat, vertical pieces of scenery placed at the sides of the stage that help to frame the acting area and mask off-stage areas. Teasers are short curtains or pieces of fabric that hang at the front of the stage to conceal the area above the stage and create the impression of a proscenium arch. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in stage design and scene transitions, but in the context of the question regarding pipes used to hang scenery, battens are the appropriate choice.