City Scene

• A city scene is a common choice for a backdrop as it can apply literally to the story or simply serve as an appropriate background for a performance. For example, a dance recital may opt to use a Broadway backdrop for a performance in that dance relates to Broadway. A play that takes place in or around a city, whether it be a specific city such as New York City or simply a generic one, would work well with a city backdrop.
  
  

Outdoor Scene

• An outdoor scene is a fitting backdrop for a poetry reading or a musical concert as it will relay a soothing and calm background for the performances. An outdoor scene, such as a prairie, forest or mountain scene can serve as a fitting choice for a play as well. For example, the musical "The Lion King" uses several landscape backdrops to help set the atmosphere.
  
  

Rooms

• Create a backdrop that conveys a specific room or location. For example, a bedroom, kitchen or a classroom will send a very clear and defined message to the audience as to the setting of the scene and the atmosphere of the play. The play "The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee," for example, uses a simple school auditorium backdrop throughout the play.
  
  

Abstract

• For a less clearly defined setting in a play, or for a more generic backdrop option for a dance recital or musical production, an abstract backdrop is appropriate. This can include anything from whimsical splashes of color to spray-painted graffiti or patterns such as polka dots or stripes. The tone of the production should still be reflected in the backdrop. A backdrop full of vibrant colors will denote a cheerful, upbeat production. A darker production will use a more dreary and gloomy artistic display on the backdrop.