What is used to temporarily hold two pieces of scenery together?

The use of a C-clamp is prevalent in technical theatre for temporarily holding two pieces of scenery together because it allows for a strong grip without permanently altering the materials. C-clamps are adjustable, providing the ability to secure the scenery firmly while still allowing for adjustments during the set-up process. This is particularly useful in theatre where sets may need to be quickly changed or reconfigured for different performances.

Other fasteners, like carriage bolts, drywall screws, or nails, tend to create more permanent connections. Carriage bolts require drilling and result in a fixed bond, meaning that pieces cannot easily be moved or removed without additional effort. Drywall screws, while useful for joining materials, can cause damage to the scenery if removed frequently. Nails are often used for construction but don't provide the same level of flexibility and ease of use as a C-clamp when needing to quickly secure or release scenery. Hence, in a dynamic environment like a theatre where changes are routine, C-clamps are ideal for temporary holds.