Props

Description of Position

The Props Chief responsibility is identifying, caring for, organizing, and/ or constructing all props needed for the production. He / she will also aid in the construction of the set. During performances, the Prop Chief is in charge of the prop table(s), making sure it is organized and all props are accounted for and in working order. The Prop Chief must check all props at the beginning of call-time and after every performance.

List of Responsibilities

Pre-Production

• Read the script.
• Create a “Prop Book” in a three-ringed binder. It should contain a copy of the script with available space for notes, and other resources provided by Director.
• Attend all production meetings the with production team. At meetings, record concerns or needs and communicate these to the Stage Manager.
• Help with set construction. Be present at most Wednesday and Saturday tech days.
• Use the PROP LIST FORM to create a list of all props needed for the production. This includes all set furniture, set dressings, hand props, personal props, consumable food items, and special effect props. List should include who will use prop, the scene prop is needed, if the prop is already owned, if the prop needed to be purchased, or if prop needs to be constructed. See Prop List document.
• Research the time period of the show. Find pictures of props that are time appropriate; include pictures in props list.
• The PROP LIST should be given to Director in timely fashion or when requested.

Tech Week/ Dress Rehearsal and During Production

• Attend all rehearsals.
• Watch the show and make notes of when actors need props and where the actor uses the prop. Use this to determine where props should be kept during the show.
• Set up stage right and stage left prop tables. Use butcher paper to cover tables and marker to outline positions of props. Include act and scene when prop is used.
• Note the use of all props and become extremely familiar with the script and the needs of the entire production.
• Help set up stage and furniture.
• Immediately communicate with Stage Manager and directors if props become damaged or lost.
• Communicate with Shop Manager if “quick fix-ups” are needed on any furniture, set pieces or props.
• Strike all props and furniture and store.
• After each rehearsal, store and secure all props.
• If food is used during the production, make sure to thoroughly clean all plates, bowls, cups... and store food in a sanitary fashion.

Show Nights

• Wear blacks and carry a small flashlight.
• Communicate with Stage Manager promptly if problems arise.
• Help set up stage and furniture.
• Immediately communicate with Stage Manager and directors if props become damaged or lost.
• Communicate with Shop Manager if “quick fix-ups” are needed on any furniture, set pieces or props.
• After each show, store and secure all props and furniture.
• Perform all post show duties. Make sure stage is set for opening the next day and all other materials are proper put away, turned off, and stored.
• Supervise your assigned area during clean up. Report to Stage Manager when all tasks have been accomplished.
• Assist other members of Production Team with their nightly duties, if necessary.

Show Night Typical Time Line for a 7:30 pm Curtain

6:00 pm

• Sign in.
• Check in with Stage Manager.
• Set up props tables.
• Set stage for Act 1, Scene 1

6:05 pm

• Attend cast / crew meeting

6:25 pm

• Set up props tables.
• Set stage for Act 1, Scene 1
• Check in with Stage Manager; provide assistance if necessary
• Make sure stage is ready to OPEN HOUSE at 7pm

7:00 pm

• Monitor stage as house opens. Assist other run crews if necessary.
• Respond to stage managers calls " Thank you 15, 10, 5...."

7:15 pm

• Attend cast / crew warm up

7:25 pm

• Monitor stage. Assist other run crew if necessary.
• Respond to a “hold” if necessary.

7:32 pm

• Execute cues from stage manager.

End of Show

• Collect all used props
• Store and secure props
• Clean / store food items & equipment (if used)
• Report broken or lost props

Strike

• Help directors and Stage Manager maintain organization during strike.
• Collect, clean, organize all props used during the production. Dispose of perishables.
• Clean and organize prop storage area.
• Report damaged and lost props.
• Using a checklist, make sure your duties have been accomplished. Keep cast and crew occupied with appropriate tasks.
• Check out with Stage Manager.
• Compliment and thank crew.

LINK TO PROP FORMS