Hand Props: Collects and/or
creates props needed for a production. Organizes props to be available during
rehearsals and performances. The Prop Crew is the custodian of the properties
collected, owned and stored by the theatre.
The crew is responsible for
keeping the props and furniture stored properly organized and in usable
condition. The crew is responsible for maintaining a complete listing of
properties and maintaining records of the props on loan or rented. The crew is
responsible for the physical process of letting the props out and letting them
back into storage.
Set Dressing: In addition to
hand props the Prop Crew is responsible for dressing the set. Dressing the set
is the process of decorating the walls, selecting furnishings, accessories, and
furniture that create the ambiance of the period and style of the play.
The Prop Crew schedules work
sessions and assigns work for volunteers to assist in collecting, building,
painting, and moving the properties and set decorations for a production.
Typical procedures for a
production
Read the script to gain an
understanding of period and style of the show.
Determine if any specialty props or
furnishings are required.
Meet with the director to determine
hand prop requirements for each character.
Inventory the property stock to
determine if an item is on hand, must be made or must be found.
Make, borrow, rent props and
furnishings as needed and approved.
Schedule construction or search
session(s) as needed.
Transfer props and furnishing to
the theatre.
At the end of a production, clean
and properly store props in stock, return rentals and loans
The size of the prop crew fluctuates
with the requirements of each production. Two or more crewmembers should gather
props, furnishings and set dressings. For the run of the performances a least
two will be needed for the stage crew. The prop stage crew may be two who gather
or may be another two crewmembers.
