Theatre Split Flap Display in Romania

11 specially sized modules integrated into the stage design for a successful live performance

Project Information

Location: Sibiu, Romania
Use Case: Theatre Stage Prop / Scene Display
Theatre: Teatrul Național Radu Stanca Sibiu
Production: UNION PLACE
Application: Live Stage Performance
Stage Role: Displaying locations, years and scene-related messages as part of the visual storytelling
Design Style: Mechanical Split Flap Display Integrated into Theatre Set Design
Installed: 2025

Split Flap Specs

Module Size: 30 cm (H) × 20 cm (W)
Layout: 1 Row × 11 Columns
Overall Display Area: 30 cm (H) × 220 cm (W)
Finish: Black Flaps with White Characters
Display Content: Locations / Years / Words / Scene Messages

TS Display produced this split flap display for UNION PLACE, a theatre production at Teatrul Național Radu Stanca Sibiu in Romania.

The installation consists of 1 row × 11 specially sized modules, with each module measuring 30 cm high × 20 cm wide. The dimensions were developed to fit naturally into the stage set and provide clear visibility during the performance.

Rather than acting as a conventional information board, the split flap display became part of the visual storytelling on stage.

A Mechanical Display Integrated into the Stage

Mounted above the performance area, the split flap display changes throughout the production to show different words, locations, years and scene-related messages.

Messages such as VIENNA, LUXEMBOURG, SIBIU and PARTY appear as the story moves between scenes, allowing the mechanical display to work together with the actors, lighting and stage design.

The movement of the flaps and the characteristic mechanical appearance give the display a physical presence that digital screens cannot easily reproduce.

Split flap display integrated into a theatre stage set in Romania

Split flap stage display showing Vienna during a theatre performance

Specially Sized Modules for the Theatre

Standard module dimensions were not ideal for the proportions of this stage installation, so TS Display produced 30 × 20 cm split flap modules specifically for the project.

The final configuration uses 11 modules in a single horizontal row, creating a long, clean display that fits naturally into the architecture of the set without dominating the performance space.

This project also demonstrates how a split flap board can be adapted for applications beyond traditional transportation-style information displays.

Split flap display showing 1986 Sibiu during a theatre performance

Split flap display showing Luxembourg above actors during a theatre scene

From Display Board to Stage Element

During the live performance, the split flap display functions as part of the scenery rather than simply as signage.

Changing locations, years and scene-related messages help support transitions within the story, while the mechanical flipping action adds another visual and acoustic element to the production.

The completed split flap display was successfully integrated into the live production and became a distinctive part of the stage design.

Split flap display showing PARTY during a theatre performance in Romania — **The split flap display changes messages as part of the live theatre performance.**

Theatre cast in front of a split flap display showing Union Place — **The cast on stage beneath the split flap display after the successful performance.**

Split Flap Displays for Creative Installations

From theatres and exhibitions to retail spaces and events, split flap displays can be produced in different module sizes and configurations to suit the surrounding architecture and visual concept.

TS Display provides split flap display systems, control software and technical support for projects worldwide.