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  • 1.  Flash Paper

    Posted 11-03-2015 08:21

    Hello- Has anyone used flash paper on stage? What did you use to ignite the paper? Was is consistently working? Thank you for any feedback you can share. 

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    Lindsey LoParco
    Thespian Advisor
    Canton NY
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  • 2.  RE: Flash Paper

    Posted 11-03-2015 20:31

    Flash paper is a great effect but it does take considerable time to perfect the use of it by your actor on stage.  It ignites via a match but the match obviously must remain hidden.  It works as well as the person using it can manipulate it.  So, if you are going to use it, give your actor ample time to rehearse with it to arrive at an acceptable technique for the scene and also for your actor to feel comfortable with the effect.

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    John Ballantyne
    Owner
    J&B Production Arts Services
    Youngstown OH



  • 3.  RE: Flash Paper

    Posted 11-04-2015 06:45

    Years ago we used flash pots and flash paper on stage quite often, but after the fire at that night club laws changed. Now, at least in my state, there are all sorts of regulations and concerns that make it not worth the trouble. I would definitely get a fire marshal consult before proceeding. It's a different world.

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    Nell Lynch



  • 4.  RE: Flash Paper

    Posted 11-04-2015 09:04

    Make sure you have the full cooperation of your Fire Marshall!

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    John Perry
    Drama Instructor
    Atherton High School
    Louisville KY



  • 5.  RE: Flash Paper

    Posted 11-04-2015 14:20

    We just finished a show (Children of Eden) in which we used flash paper in two different scenes.  We tried various methods, but in the end, a very small Bic lighter is what worked best.  We tried a flint, a magician's thumb lighter, and a standard size lighter, but the little one is what we went with.

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    Monica Williams-Mitchell
    Cincinnati OH