flyman

A flyman raises the curtain before the play begins.

Definition

1. Noun (Theatre):

   • A "flyman" is a stagehand responsible for operating the system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights used to raise and lower scenery, curtains, and lighting equipment above the stage (the "fly system").
   • This role is essential in theatrical productions to create scene changes and special effects.

2. Noun (Historical, Obsolete):

   • In older usage, a "flyman" referred to a driver of a one-horse carriage or hackney coach (a "fly" was a type of light, fast horse-drawn vehicle).

Usage Examples

• Theatre:

  • The flyman carefully pulled the ropes to lower the backdrop for the next act. (The stagehand operated the fly system to change the scenery.)
  • During the performance, the flyman coordinated with the stage manager to raise the chandelier. (The stagehand controlled the overhead equipment.)

• Historical:

  • In 19th-century London, a flyman would wait near theatres to pick up passengers. (A driver of a one-horse carriage for hire.)

Advanced Usage

• "Flyman's gallery": The elevated platform or catwalk where the flyman works, often located high above the stage.

  • The flyman's gallery is a dangerous place, requiring constant attention to safety. (The overhead workspace for operating the fly system.)

• "Flyman's cue": A signal or instruction given to the flyman to execute a specific movement of scenery.

  • The stage manager gave the flyman's cue, and the curtain rose smoothly. (The signal to begin a scene change.)

Variants and Related Words

• Fly system (n): The mechanical system of ropes, pulleys, and counterweights used to move scenery and equipment above a stage.

  • The fly system requires precise maintenance to ensure safety. (The overhead rigging apparatus.)

• Fly floor (n): A raised platform or gallery where the flyman operates the fly system.

  • The fly floor is located above the stage, accessible by a narrow staircase. (The working area for the flyman.)

• Flyman's assistant (n): A helper who assists the flyman in operating the fly system.

  • The flyman's assistant checked the counterweights before the show. (A junior stagehand.)

Synonyms

• Stagehand (n): Any worker who handles scenery, lighting, or props backstage.
• Rigger (n): A person who sets up and operates ropes and pulleys, especially in theatre or film.
• Linesman (n): A stagehand who specifically handles the lines (ropes) of the fly system.

Phrasal Verbs

• Fly in: To lower scenery or equipment from above the stage.

  • The crew will fly in the chandelier during the ballroom scene. (To bring down from the fly system.)

• Fly out: To raise scenery or equipment out of sight above the stage.

  • The backdrop must be flown out before the next act. (To lift up and remove from view.)

Related Idioms

• "To work the flies": To operate the fly system in a theatre.

  • He learned to work the flies during his apprenticeship at the opera house. (To handle the overhead rigging.)

• "Flyman's nightmare": A situation where the fly system malfunctions or becomes tangled.

  • The tangled ropes were a flyman's nightmare, delaying the show. (A problematic scenario for the stagehand.)