The definition of a theatrical property (or ‘prop’) is very precise. It is absolutely anything used by actors on stage that is not scenery, a costume or a hat. So, it includes everything that an actor will need to hold, pick up, eat, drink, throw, play with or interact with in any way. Also included are personal items such as handbags, spectacles, jewellery, umbrellas/parasols and walking sticks.

Additionally, in liaison with the stage designer, props people select pictures, ornaments, cushions, curtains, bed linen and other items to dress the set.

The importance of good props from a theatrical point of view cannot be overstated. The drink, the gun and the newspaper might be fakes... but all must look like the real thing.

How it works

Propping a show can involve finding, buying, borrowing, hiring and making. The Loft has an extensive props store and many items will be found there. However, it is inevitable that on many occasions objects will need to be made. Prop-makers call upon a multitude of skills from model making and mask making to painting and papier-mâché. The work can be extremely detailed or relatively simple depending on the play and the requirements. Accuracy according to period is essential and research is vital.

Imagination and ingenuity are essential, because the department can be asked to supply the strangest things. Just within the past couple of years they have made a nearly dead poodle, a very dead cat, a cow, various bloody body parts, and a lamp of lemons!

The process begins with a pre-production meeting two or three weeks before rehearsals begin. The requirements are discussed with the director, the props budget is defined and the rehearsal schedule confirmed. Rehearsals normally get under way six weeks before opening night and take place four nights a week, usually on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Once the props are in use on the stage, the props department is responsible for making sure all props are in the correct place to be picked up by the actors who need them – this could be in dressing rooms, or at the sides of the stage. Like the stage team who move scenery, the props team can be spotted during scene changes in a show, dressed in black or even in costume, carrying or moving props on and off stage.

Commitment and reward

Learning can be done ‘on the job’ but a committed attitude to the work, flexibility and a powerful imagination are essentials.

If you enjoy making and tracking down things you will be in your element and gain great satisfaction. ‘Propping’ can give you a wonderful feeling of satisfaction from being a key part of the creative process and contributing towards a successful production.

What to do next

For more information and to find out how to get involved in the props team, contact Chris Foyer.

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