Frequently Asked Questions About Stage Props

What is a stage cigarette prop?

A stage cigarette prop is a professional prop system designed to recreate the appearance of a traditional cigarette and produce a realistic visual smoking effect for theatre, film, television and live productions.

Unlike traditional cigarettes, the Stage Props system creates the visual effect without combustion, ash or a burning tip.

Learn more: What Is a Stage Cigarette Prop?

How does the Stage Props system work?

The system consists of a rechargeable battery and a replaceable filter. During use, the device activates automatically and creates a visible effect suitable for stage and camera work.

Learn more: How Our Stage Cigarette Prop System Works?

What is the system used for?

Stage Props is designed to help productions create realistic smoking scenes while providing a practical, reusable solution for rehearsals, performances and filming.

What are the filters made of?

The filters contain only two ingredients:

There are no other ingredients.

The filters contain:

Propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin are also used as ingredients in certain professional theatrical fog and atmospheric products. This does not automatically constitute approval for any particular production; the specific use must be assessed by the responsible production.

Do actors need to inhale?

No.

For the intended visible stage effect, Stage Props recommends one short, controlled draw of no more than two seconds. The effect can be produced by drawing into the mouth and then exhaling. Inhalation into the lungs is not required to produce the effect.

Can it be used indoors?

Yes.

The system was developed for controlled professional stage, studio and production environments. Before use, the responsible production must assess local rules, venue requirements, ventilation conditions and its own safety procedures.

Does it produce smoke?

The system creates a visible stage effect that simulates smoke for theatrical purposes without combustion.

Does it have a strong smell?

No.

The system produces only minimal residual odour. The responsible production must nevertheless follow its own procedures for costumes, scenery, ventilation and the specific venue.

Is it safe around costumes and scenery?

The system has been designed for professional productions.

Because there is no combustion, no burning tip and no open flame, many of the practical risks associated with traditional cigarettes are eliminated.

However, productions should always follow their own health and safety procedures.

Is it suitable for non-smokers?

Yes.

Prior smoking experience is not required to use the system. Use must be planned and supervised within the production's own risk assessment and internal safety procedures.

How long does a filter last?

Under normal conditions of use, one filter provides up to approximately 200 short activations. The actual number depends in particular on draw duration, frequency of use and storage.

For professional productions, we recommend replacing the filter before each performance to ensure optimum hygiene, consistent performance and the best possible visual effect.

What needs to be replaced?

The filter needs to be replaced when used up. For professional productions, we recommend using a new filter before each performance.

Stage Props replacement filters are supplied pre-filled, sealed and non-refillable. They are not intended to be opened, refilled or modified.

The battery is rechargeable and reusable.

How long does the rechargeable battery last?

Battery capacity gradually decreases over time. Actual service life depends on use, charging conditions, temperature and storage.

Can multiple actors use the same device?

Yes.

But for hygiene reasons, we recommend that each performer uses a new filter and where possible, for each performance.

Is the system suitable for touring productions?

Yes.

The reusable design, simple operation and quick filter replacement make the system well suited to touring productions, repertory companies and long-running shows.

Is technical documentation available?

Yes.

We can provide product specifications, user documentation and a declaration confirming the composition of our consumables. Learn more here.

Do you charge VAT?

All prices are shown excluding applicable taxes unless otherwise stated. VAT treatment depends on the delivery destination and your VAT registration status.

We supply professional customers and organisations only.

Will I have to pay import charges?

Depending on the delivery destination, import taxes, customs duties, brokerage fees and customs clearance charges may apply. Any such charges not expressly included in your order are payable by the customer.

Please see our Terms & Conditions for destination-specific requirements.

If you have any questions regarding VAT or importing into your country, please contact us.

Learn More

If you'd like to learn more about the Stage Props system, we recommend these guides:

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