Stage Pulleys

Stage pulleys — also known as blocks in theatrical rigging — are the load-bearing sheaves used to redirect wire rope and operating lines through a fly system. A fly system uses ropes, pulleys, counterweights and related devices to enable a stage crew to quickly, quietly and safely hoist components such as curtains, lights and scenery. Pulleys are a critical component in every counterweight and manual rigging system, from small venue curtain tracks to large-scale theatrical fly towers.

Part of our entertainment and stage rigging range. Browse all rigging accessories or visit our rigging hardware guide for more information.

Types of stage pulley

• Loft blocks — mounted above the stage on grid beams; redirect lift lines from horizontal to vertical down to the batten
• Head blocks — large multi-groove pulleys mounted above the arbor; gather all lift lines and direct them out to the loft blocks
• Floor blocks (tension blocks) — mounted at the base of the counterweight system to guide the hand line through the rope lock
• Mule blocks — used to redirect lines horizontally or at various angles, providing flexibility in layouts with obstructions
• Single purchase pulleys — general-purpose pulleys for curtain tracks, drop lines and simple hand-operated rigging

Typical applications

• Counterweight fly systems — the backbone of most professional theatre rigging, used to fly lighting bars, scenic pieces and curtains
• Curtain tracks and tabs — redirecting operating lines for manual and motorised curtain systems
• Scenery flying — raising and lowering backdrops, cloths and set pieces during performances
• Wall-mounted rigging points — Doughty heavy-duty wall mounting plates for stage pulleys in permanent venue installations

What to look for

• SWL and design factor — entertainment rigging pulleys should carry a minimum 8:1 design factor and conform to relevant LOLER and PLASA standards
• Sheave material — nylon or Nylatron sheaves run quietly and resist wear; steel sheaves offer higher capacity for heavy loads
• Wire rope compatibility — match the sheave groove diameter to your wire rope or hand line size

Safety note: All stage pulley systems should be designed, installed and regularly inspected by a qualified rigger. In the UK, LOLER regulations apply to all lifting equipment used in entertainment venues.