Creative Recycling in the Theater

Creative Recycling in the Theater

Here in Austin, Texas recycling, up cycling, and re-using your discarded materials is a must.  This movement for a better Earth has really gotten us thinking at StageSpot.  What can we do in the theater to contribute to this new era where recycling is not only responsible but also in vogue? 
So StageSpot got together with local fashion designer Hunter Stefano to donate materials for his garments in the 3rd Annual TCE Trash Makeover.  Texas Campaign for the Environment has been hosting an all recycled/up-cycled fashion competition every year to raise money for their many and varied environmental causes around the state of Texas. 
Stefano used numerous materials for his two looks including used gel and plastic drop cloth donated by StageSpot.

Hunter Stefano with models at TCE Trash Makeover" Nina Kruger on runway at TCE Trash Makeover"

This is just one awesome and creative way to recycle the extra materials produced by theaters every performance.  Let’s be real, we try to re-use as much as we can of course, save it for the next show or haul the extra lumber to the shop to use later but there’s always a mess of gel scraps, tie line or washers that don’t get used and do get thrown away. 
Hunter Stefano inspired us with his thoughtful and attractive use of our toss out colored gel.  So we put our heads together here in the office and thought of some unique and utilitarian ideas for re-using theater throw-aways.

Reuse your Gobos
This is a fun idea we got from a customer who wanted to re-use their steel patterned gobos.  She was using them as stencils (for baking specifically, in this case).  But this is a great idea in general for stencil work on small surface areas.  Our customer was using the gobo to dust powdered sugar onto baked goods.  Super cute!  A great way to stretch the uses for your gobos.

Reuse your Backdrops
This is a smart up-cycling idea that can also be a great “show gift”.  What to do with your backdrops after they’re just too tattered to be used on stage any longer?  Everyone wants a memento from the shows they’ve worked on or seen.  Why not use that old backdrop to make re-usable green bags for? This way all of that material isn’t going to waste and each bag has a unique piece of the show in a good show gift you cast will actually be able to use!  Theatres are also looking for unique money making ideas.  We be your donors would pay a premium to have a grocery bag made from a drop from their favorite show.  Here’s a tutorial for making super simple green bags: How to Sew a Basic Bag

Reuse that Tie line and those Washers
There’s always a mess of shorter tie line, washers, screws and nuts at the end of strike that just can’t be used again.  Why not take those left overs and make a great “found objects” wind chime?  Not only are you finding a use for stuff that would otherwise end up in the trash but you’re also making a fun and easy art piece for your backyard or porch!  Here are some examples:

The theatre world is trying to get up to speed in the green game.  You can see it in how theaters are renovating their recycling practices but we can do so much more! 
Take a look at the efforts of Broadway Green Alliance.
 There’s some great stuff happening out there and StageSpot wants to do our part!