Like the traveller, the tableau curtain is made up of two curtain panels hung, with center overlap, from a single batten. Each panel is lifted by a diagonal drawline attached to the central edge about a third of its height off the floor, that runs through rings on the back of the curtain to a pulley on the batten.

Typical Fabric Choices for a tab curtain include Cotton Velour, and Encore Velour. While an upstage tab drape may sewn unlined, a tab which will play downstage will usually be lined to help with opacity and add to the life of the drape.

Track Recommendations for this type of application include the Silent Steel 280 series and the Besteel 170 Series by ADC. The "tab" motion of the drape will only work from the curtains closed position.