BillConnerFASTC
Well-Known Member
here's another restored and encapsulated painted asbestos fire curtain: https://www.historictheatrephotos.com/Theatre/Pasadena-Civic-Los-Angeles.aspx
near middle of that page with photos:
"The theatre retains its original fire curtain which is painted to harmonize with the auditorium and ceiling decoration.
In 1968 a fire at the electrical switchboard (Downstage Right) scorched the fire curtain however temporary repairs were made. It was not until 2019 that the fire curtain was fully repaired which included repairing and repainting of the damaged section in addition to encapsulation of the asbestos fibers within the historic fire curtain."
Aaron - I think you have a good case for preservation based on precedents, with some updating of the rigging perhaps.
Not real cheap but a lot of convenience and more complaint would be to add a motor to your existing rig (assuming its all safe). Balance for curtain heavy and motor covers 500 or so pounds, with emergency release a clutch like device. The motor just makes it much easier to regularly close and open and for periodic testing, compared to overbalancing.
near middle of that page with photos:
"The theatre retains its original fire curtain which is painted to harmonize with the auditorium and ceiling decoration.
In 1968 a fire at the electrical switchboard (Downstage Right) scorched the fire curtain however temporary repairs were made. It was not until 2019 that the fire curtain was fully repaired which included repairing and repainting of the damaged section in addition to encapsulation of the asbestos fibers within the historic fire curtain."
Aaron - I think you have a good case for preservation based on precedents, with some updating of the rigging perhaps.
Not real cheap but a lot of convenience and more complaint would be to add a motor to your existing rig (assuming its all safe). Balance for curtain heavy and motor covers 500 or so pounds, with emergency release a clutch like device. The motor just makes it much easier to regularly close and open and for periodic testing, compared to overbalancing.