What are the weights placed on the arbor to balance the load on the batten so the system can be moved safely?

• A. Rope lock
• B. Turnbuckle
• C. Counterweight
• D. Loft block

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is balancing. In a counterweight rigging system, the batten (the pipe you fly scenery on) is connected to an arbor carrying weights. Those weights are placed on the arbor to balance the weight of the loaded batten so everything moves smoothly and safely. When the system is properly balanced, a person can move the batten with minimal effort and maintain control, reducing the risk of a drop or sudden movement. The term for those balancing weights is counterweights, which offset the load on the batten. The other items perform different roles—rope locks hold lines in place, turnbuckles adjust line tension, and loft blocks redirect rope. None of them serve as the balancing mass needed to safely move the system.