Step into any classic theatre, and one thing immediately grabs your eye — the giant red curtain. But have you ever wondered why it’s almost always red? It’s not just a coincidence, or someone’s favourite colour. There’s actually a mix of science, history, and tradition behind this theatrical choice.Back in the early days of theatre, stage lighting wasn’t as advanced as it is today. Many performances relied on candlelight or gas lamps. Red, being a dark and rich colour, absorbed excess light and didn’t reflect it back into the audience’s eyes, helping maintain the magical illusion of the stage. Even today, red works well with spotlights and creates a dramatic backdrop that doesn’t distract from the performance.But there’s also a psychological reason. Red is a bold, warm colour that grabs attention. It’s associated with excitement, energy, and passion — perfect for the dramatic world of theatre. Sitting in a red-velvet auditorium helps set the mood before the play even begins.Historically, red dye was expensive and often used to signal luxury and importance. Royal courts and opera houses adopted red curtains as a sign of prestige, and the trend simply stuck.So, the next time you sit in a theatre and stare at those grand red curtains, you’ll know they’re not just for show.
Step into any classic theatre, and one thing immediately grabs your eye — the giant red curtain. But have you ever wondered why it’s almost always red? It’s not just a coincidence, or someone’s favourite colour. There’s actually a mix of science, history, and tradition behind this theatrical choice.Back in the early days of theatre, stage lighting wasn’t as advanced as it is today. Many performances relied on candlelight or gas lamps. Red, being a dark and rich colour, absorbed excess light and didn’t reflect it back into the audience’s eyes, helping maintain the magical illusion of the stage. Even today, red works well with spotlights and creates a dramatic backdrop that doesn’t distract from the performance.But there’s also a psychological reason. Red is a bold, warm colour that grabs attention. It’s associated with excitement, energy, and passion — perfect for the dramatic world of theatre. Sitting in a red-velvet auditorium helps set the mood before the play even begins.Historically, red dye was expensive and often used to signal luxury and importance. Royal courts and opera houses adopted red curtains as a sign of prestige, and the trend simply stuck.So, the next time you sit in a theatre and stare at those grand red curtains, you’ll know they’re not just for show.
