A stage isn't necessary, but it's certainly nice to have one. Stages can be temporary or permanent additions to the front of the church, and they provide a designated area for dramas, special music presentations, or normal church meeting events. Here's how to build one for your church.
Measure the area which the stage will occupy. Be sure to accommodate doors and structures which are already in place in the same area.
Consider the use. For a stage to be used from time to time, for special dramas or presentations, you will want to keep it smaller and easily portable. This can be done by building the stage in two or three pieces. For a permanent stage, you may need something larger or even with two levels, and you may need to construct steps as well.
Construct a frame. Use treated lumber that will not rot, and make the frame sturdy. People will be walking on the stage, so you want it to hold up well.
Cover the frame with wood planks or plywood. Wood planks will be more expensive. Plywood of at least 3/4-inch thickness will do just as well, and since the stage will probably be covered with carpet or paint, it's a smart choice. Cut the plywood to cover the entire top surface of the stage and nail or screw it into your frame. Cut additional plywood into strips large enough to cover the sides of the stage, so you don't have open space underneath that will be visible to the congregation.
Drill holes for wiring. For permanent stages, mark out the wiring for your church's sound system so you can run it underneath the frame and up through the top surface. Drill holes in the appropriate places for the cables and wires to come through for easy access and use.
Cover the stage with carpet. Alternately, you can simply paint the entire surface of the stage. It's usually better to use a carpet; something with a very short nap or a Berber-style, as this will also help to muffle footsteps and keep sound waves from bouncing off the surface of the stage. If the stage will be used for drama and/or music in the church, carpet is definitely the best option.
Tip
Choose a dark color for your paint or carpeting. Dark blends in better with the background and shadows. Light colors can be obtrusive, especially if the stage is being used for a drama. Install 2-by-4 foot posts vertically to the back of the stage to act as supports for backdrops.
Writer Bio
Annie Mueller is a professional writer and blogger. Since 2003 she has written extensively on small business, finances, parenting, education and personal growth, and has been published on Financial Edge and many other websites. Mueller attended Missouri Baptist College and earned her Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, in English from Mississippi State University.
Related Articles
