“...responsible for making all the props used in a show and ensuring they suit the design of the production.”
-- Get Into Theatre
One of the crucial aspects of being a props designer is ensuring that the props align seamlessly with the era, setting, and overal aesthetic of the production. This step requires a deep understanding of historical context and artistic style.
The first step is to thoroughly read the script for all mentioned props. Once all the props are identified, the next step is to collaborate with the rest of the design team. Open discussions with them ensure that the props not only reflect the time period and setting but also support the overall visual language of the production.
Once the props designer identifies the necessary items from the script and collaborates with the design team, the next crucial step is determining what materials to use for creating each prop. This phase involves research, creativity, and practicality. The props not only need to look authentic to the era and setting, but they also must meet the practical demands of the production. A part of this is to research the history and culture of the time period and place where the set is taking place. Once this research is complete, the designer must decide which material will be used to create each prop. Multiple parts that will play into these decisions are authenticity, durability, safety, and weight. After choosing the proper material, they must make the props which can be tedious and time-consuming.