HEAD OF PROPS

The HEAD OF PROPS is responsible for renting, borrowing or making props and seeing that they are properly itemized, stored and returned in good condition. In co-operation with the STAGE MANAGER and ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER, they organize and place the props tables, and assists in the organization of property shifts during performances. They also coordinate the gathering of rehearsal props with the STAGE MANAGER.

Based on the complexity of the props plot, the positions of BUYER and BUILDER may be added to the Props Department. These positions currently have no job descriptions at the School, but specific duties may be assigned by the Resident Staff or the HEAD OF PROPS.

Under the unionized staffing structure, the HEAD OF PROPS is a HOUSE HEAD, with duties over and above those required in a traditional hierarchy.

The responsibilities of the HEAD OF PROPS, in addition to those of a HEAD OF DEPARTMENT, may include, but not be limited to:

GENERAL

• Creates a complete list of all properties required in the production (including set dressing, hand and food props), and checks with both the STAGE MANAGER and the DESIGNER to ensure all are required
• Researches prop detailing, as required, and takes photographs of potential items for approval by the DESIGNER
• Determines, with the STAGE MANAGER and DESIGNER, which props are required as REHEARSAL PROPS; obtains these as soon as possible
• Keeps an up-to-date props list
• Determines the deadlines for obtaining and building props, in conjunction with the TECHNICAL DIRECTOR and PRODUCTION MANAGER
• Assigns the task of building or obtaining props to crew members.
• Supervises and participates in the construction of props.
• Considers the use on-stage of the prop, prior to its design, build or rental; determines if unusual blocking or use could damage the item
• Keeps records of rented or borrowed props, including a detailed description, its value, the lender’s name and address, and any special agreements regarding their use; copies this information to the staff PRODUCTION and OPERATIONS MANAGER
• Checks whether the prop exists in storage before a purchase or loan is made
• Keeps all props organized and safely stored
• Maintains a clear and open dialogue with the STAGE MANAGER and/or the ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER throughout rehearsal process, regarding additions, deletions or changes to props
• Attends technical and dress rehearsals to check condition and wear of props, and to take general notes
• Maintains and makes repairs to props during the run of the show
• Handles any special pre-setting that must occur and cannot be delegated to Stage Management
• Arranges for the transportation of all borrowed or rented props
• Returns props to lenders promptly, usually the Monday following the closing night
• Liaises with the School’s WORK STUDY SET/PROPS ASSISTANT or the RESIDENT SHOP SUPERVISOR when borrowing or returning stock items to storage
• Maintains the organization and neatness of the props storage area, in conjunction with the WORK STUDY SET/PROPS ASSISTANT

ADMINISTRATION AND SCHEDULING

• Makes a detailed budget for the purchase, construction and rental of props
• Contributes to the creation of a detailed WEEKLY and DAILY SCHEDULE, produced by the PRODUCTION MANAGER
• Attends all production meetings, and organizes department meetings as required

SAFETY

• Ensures that work is carried out in a safe manner, paying special attention to the use or respirators, gloves, and WHMIS MATERIAL DATA SAFETY SHEETS
• Compiles, where possible, a record of WHMIS MATERIAL DATA SAFETY SHEETS referencing materials used
• Ensures that safety rules are observed and safety equipment is used correctly by all crew members

UNDER A UNIONIZED STAFFING STRUCTURE

• Works closely with Stage Management to determine props placement and flow
• Determines the location of props tables
• Takes responsibility for all props once they are loaded in
• Is responsible for stage/deck cleanliness; sweeps, mops and vacuums stage areas as necessary
• Hands props to performers, as necessary, and assists Stage Management in props tracking during the performance
• Is responsible for obtaining, placing and monitoring all water, cups, kleenex, and other performer-related sundry items onstage

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

Note: This position carries considerable personal responsibility. Loss of, or damage to, rented or borrowed props can be disastrous to the good relations the School has developed over the years with many props companies and sources.

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and accept limited liability for the items they rent or borrow. Students will not be responsible for legitimate, performance-related, accidental damage

• Personally responsible for the safe storage of all props, especially those borrowed and rented
• Personally responsible for the safe and timely return of all rented and borrowed props
• Personally responsible to explain, to the owner of the prop, any damage; repairs or arranges for the replacement of any damaged rented or borrowed prop
• May be held financially responsible for repairs or replacement, depending on the circumstances
• Production Assignment grades may be withheld, or an INCOMPLETE grade given, should returns not happen in a prompt and timely manner

This information is intended as a guideline only. It is not intended to replace the required reading or research in your area, or information gained in the classroom.

To be used in conjunction with the HEAD OF DEPARTMENT job description.

The demands of this position, and the hours worked, will vary with each production.

THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION MAY BE ALTERED WITHOUT NOTICE BY THE RESIDENT STAFF AND FACULTY