What are tormentors typically used for in a theatre setting?

In a theatre setting, tormentors serve the specific purpose of masking the sides of the stage from the audience’s view. They are vertical drapes or flats placed on either side of the proscenium arch, designed to prevent the audience from seeing backstage activities, such as actors preparing to enter or crew members moving props and set pieces.

This function is crucial as it helps maintain the illusion of the performance, allowing the audience to focus on what is happening on stage without distractions from off-stage movements. The use of tormentors contributes to the overall production value by upholding the atmosphere and integrity of the storytelling.

While elements like backdrops are important for creating the scenery, and a designated space for actor entrances and exits is essential for blocking, the primary role of tormentors is specifically aimed at sightlines and audience experience during the performance. Similarly, although some stage lighting may be mounted off-stage, that is not the purpose of tormentors.