Making a cage

[bsynge]

Hi,

 

I'm designing the set for a children's production of 'One Cool Cat'. One of the scenes requires a large zoo cage to house four lions. I've got an idea of how to make it, but the quandary I'm having is how to make it sturdy enough to be brought on and offstage. Obviously, being a cage means that all the construction/bracing is visible. We can't fly it in and out, and it needs to be cheap.

Anyone made a cage before, or have any ideas?

[Ynot]

Cages/jails are actually quite easy. Done this before using a timber frame (3 x 1 bottom, 2 x 1 main frame).

make up the sections for top, middle and bottom horizontal spar, mark off as many vertical bar points as you want and drill through all 3 with a 20mm hole saw - that keeps the holes in line. Note that the top and bottom spars you should only drill the 20mm hole half-way through.

 

Then assemble the sides with the bottom and mid spars leaving the top off - then mark and cut lengths of plastic 20mm electrical conduit to suit - drop those in to the frame and finally screw the top spar in place, which will keep them all enclosed.

 

Paint black (or whatever you want) and voila - you have jail/cage bars. Build 2 or more sections, and either screw together if permanent or hinge them to make a free standing option.

 

The pics below should give you an idea of how they'll look. This set, used for 'Anything Goes' was also built with one plain side plus one with a practical jail door.

 

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j40/Ynot_01/DSC_0409.jpg

 

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j40/Ynot_01/DSC_0390.jpg

[PMB Theatre]

Morning, we make props and have made cages before. Have a look at our props section on our website: www.creatingtheimpossible.co.uk . We'd be happy to quote if you'd like to give us the dimensions. Thanks