fly gallery
Noun: A fly gallery is a narrow, elevated walkway or platform located along the side wall(s) of a theater stage, above the stage floor. It is used by stagehands to operate the system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights (collectively known as the fly system or rigging) that raises, lowers, and moves scenery, lighting, and curtains (collectively called "the flies") above the stage.
The term is used specifically in the context of theater, stagecraft, and live performance production. It refers to the physical workspace for crew members.
- The stage manager signaled for the backdrop to be lowered from the fly gallery.
- During the scene change, technicians on the fly gallery quickly raised the painted flat.
- Access to the fly gallery is usually via a steep ladder or a separate staircase.
- Operate from the fly gallery: This phrase describes the primary action performed there.
- The crew operating from the fly gallery must coordinate perfectly with the deck crew below.
- Fly system (n): The complete network of rigging, including ropes, pulleys, counterweights, battens, and the fly gallery, used to move equipment above the stage.
- Fly floor (n): Another term for fly gallery.
- Fly rail (n): The rail or pin rail on the fly gallery where the operating lines are secured.
- Flies (n, plural): The area above the stage where scenery and equipment are flown (hung and moved); the space in which the fly system operates.
- Stagehand (n): A worker who handles scenery or equipment on stage or from locations like the fly gallery.
- Fly floor
- Flywalk (less common)
The fly gallery is a critical but often unseen part of theatrical infrastructure, allowing for smooth and safe scene changes and special effects during a performance. Its design and safety protocols are essential for backstage operations.
- a narrow raised platform at the side of a stage in a theater; stagehands can work the ropes controlling equipment in the flies