What are perches in a theatrical setting?

In a theatrical setting, perches refer specifically to lighting platforms that are often positioned on the sides of a stage. These structures are crucial for supporting lighting instruments, allowing for a flexible arrangement of lights to enhance the visual aspects of a performance. Properly designed perches help achieve the desired lighting effects, ensuring that performers are well-illuminated and that the stage is visually appealing. They play an essential role in stage design and can often be adjusted or moved based on the needs of the production, allowing for creative versatility in staging.

Other options, while they reference elements relevant to a theatrical production, do not accurately define what perches are. Scenic elements are broader and encompass various stage pieces, audience seating platforms serve a different function entirely by providing a space for viewers rather than for lighting equipment, and curtains used for stage blocking refer to different types of fabric barriers that control visibility rather than platforms for lighting.