Technical Design Solutions for Theatre

Mark Stevens

A Simple Lift Jack

 

A problem often faced in scene shifts is how to lock rolling scenery in its playing position quickly. Rather than using drop pins for a Pennsylvania Center Stage production of Peter Pan, we devised the lift jack described below, which raised the back casters off the deck, thereby preventing the wagons from moving and eliminating the problem of finding holes in the dark.

This particular design proved itself superior to more familiar lift jacks in a number of ways. The simplicity of the design makes it exceptionally easy and inexpensive to construct. The ease of operation makes it quick and very efficient. And most importantly, its reusability makes it a convenient device to have on hand as stock hardware. ...