Which type of curtain is often used to create a backdrop effect in theatre?

The cyc, short for cyclorama, is a type of curtain that is specifically designed to create an expansive backdrop effect in theatre. It is usually made from a fabric that can be lit in various ways, allowing for a seamless background that can suggest skies, landscapes, or mood lighting. Placed at the back of the stage, it enhances the visual depth and atmospheric qualities of a production, often being painted or illuminated to achieve different aesthetic effects.

This curtain is especially effective for gradient lighting and creating soft, diffused colors that blend seamlessly across the backdrop. In contrast, battens refer to the horizontal piping from which curtains and other stage elements are hung, while tormentors and legs are side curtains that frame the stage but do not provide the same expansive background effect that a cyc does. Thus, the cyc stands out as the preferred option for creating an impactful backdrop in theatrical settings.