{"id":87,"date":"2020-06-29T21:15:45","date_gmt":"2020-06-30T01:15:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.ryerson.ca\/productionhandbook\/chapter\/head-of-props\/"},"modified":"2021-09-06T14:44:03","modified_gmt":"2021-09-06T18:44:03","slug":"head-of-props","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/chapter\/head-of-props\/","title":{"raw":"HEAD OF PROPS","rendered":"HEAD OF PROPS"},"content":{"raw":"<div class=\"head-of-props\">\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">The <strong>HEAD OF PROPS <\/strong>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 <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and <strong>ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER<\/strong>, 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 <strong>STAGE MANAGER.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 21.4pt\">Based on the complexity of the props plot, the positions of <strong>BUYER <\/strong>and <strong>BUILDER <\/strong>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 <strong>HEAD OF PROPS.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 14.8pt\">Under the unionized staffing structure, the <strong>HEAD OF PROPS <\/strong>is a <strong>HOUSE HEAD<\/strong>, with duties over and above those required in a traditional hierarchy.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 7pt\">The responsibilities of the <strong>HEAD OF PROPS<\/strong>, in addition to those of a <strong>HEAD OF DEPARTMENT, <\/strong>may include, but not be limited to:<\/p>\r\n<strong>GENERAL<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Creates a complete list of all properties required in the production (including set dressing, hand and food props), and checks with both the <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and the <strong>DESIGNER <\/strong>to ensure all are required<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Researches prop detailing, as required, and takes photographs of potential items for approval by the <strong>DESIGNER<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Determines, with the STAGE MANAGER and DESIGNER, which props are required as REHEARSAL PROPS; obtains these as soon as possible<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Keeps an up-to-date props list<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Determines the deadlines for obtaining and building props, in conjunction with the <strong>TECHNICAL DIRECTOR<\/strong> and <strong>PRODUCTION MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Assigns the task of building or obtaining props to crew members.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Supervises and participates in the construction of props.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>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<\/li>\r\n \t<li>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 <strong>PRODUCTION and OPERATIONS<\/strong> <strong>MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Checks whether the prop exists in storage before a purchase or loan is made<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Keeps all props organized and safely stored<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Maintains a clear and open dialogue with the <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and\/or the <strong>ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>throughout rehearsal process, regarding additions, deletions or changes to props<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Attends technical and dress rehearsals to check condition and wear of props, and to take general notes<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Maintains and makes repairs to props during the run of the show<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Handles any special pre-setting that must occur and cannot be delegated to Stage Management<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Arranges for the transportation of all borrowed or rented props<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Returns props to lenders promptly, usually the Monday following the closing night<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Liaises with the School's <strong>WORK STUDY SET\/PROPS ASSISTANT <\/strong>or the <strong style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\">RESIDENT SHOP SUPERVISOR <\/strong><span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\">when borrowing or returning stock items to storage<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Maintains the organization and neatness of the props storage area, in conjunction with the <strong>WORK STUDY SET\/PROPS ASSISTANT<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\"><strong>ADMINISTRATION AND SCHEDULING<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Makes a detailed budget for the purchase, construction and rental of props<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Contributes to the creation of a detailed WEEKLY and DAILY SCHEDULE, produced by the <strong>PRODUCTION MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li>Attends all production meetings, and organizes department meetings as required<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>SAFETY<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>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<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Compiles, where possible, a record of WHMIS MATERIAL DATA SAFETY SHEETS referencing materials used<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Ensures that safety rules are observed and safety equipment is used correctly by all crew members<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>UNDER A UNIONIZED STAFFING STRUCTURE<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Works closely with Stage Management to determine props placement and flow<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Determines the location of props tables<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Takes responsibility for all props once they are loaded in<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Is responsible for stage\/deck cleanliness; sweeps, mops and vacuums stage areas as necessary<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Hands props to performers, as necessary, and assists Stage Management in props tracking during the performance<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Is responsible for obtaining, placing and monitoring all water, cups, kleenex, and other performer-related sundry items onstage<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<strong>PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY<\/strong>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 31.7pt\"><strong>Note<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>This position carries considerable <strong>personal responsibility<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 27.65pt\">Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and accept limited liability for the items they rent or borrow. <strong>Students will not be responsible for legitimate, performance-related, accidental damage<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Personally responsible for the safe storage of all props, especially those borrowed and rented<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Personally responsible for the safe and timely return of all rented and borrowed props<\/li>\r\n \t<li>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<\/li>\r\n \t<li>May be held financially responsible for repairs or replacement, depending on the circumstances<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Production Assignment grades may be withheld, or an INCOMPLETE grade given, should returns not happen in a prompt and timely manner<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 29.4pt\">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.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">To be used in conjunction with the <strong>HEAD OF DEPARTMENT <\/strong>job description.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">The demands of this position, and the hours worked, will vary with each production.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION MAY BE ALTERED WITHOUT NOTICE BY THE RESIDENT STAFF AND FACULTY<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"import-Normal\"><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<div class=\"head-of-props\">\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">The <strong>HEAD OF PROPS <\/strong>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 <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and <strong>ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER<\/strong>, 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 <strong>STAGE MANAGER.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 21.4pt\">Based on the complexity of the props plot, the positions of <strong>BUYER <\/strong>and <strong>BUILDER <\/strong>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 <strong>HEAD OF PROPS.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 14.8pt\">Under the unionized staffing structure, the <strong>HEAD OF PROPS <\/strong>is a <strong>HOUSE HEAD<\/strong>, with duties over and above those required in a traditional hierarchy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 7pt\">The responsibilities of the <strong>HEAD OF PROPS<\/strong>, in addition to those of a <strong>HEAD OF DEPARTMENT, <\/strong>may include, but not be limited to:<\/p>\n<p><strong>GENERAL<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Creates a complete list of all properties required in the production (including set dressing, hand and food props), and checks with both the <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and the <strong>DESIGNER <\/strong>to ensure all are required<\/li>\n<li>Researches prop detailing, as required, and takes photographs of potential items for approval by the <strong>DESIGNER<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Determines, with the STAGE MANAGER and DESIGNER, which props are required as REHEARSAL PROPS; obtains these as soon as possible<\/li>\n<li>Keeps an up-to-date props list<\/li>\n<li>Determines the deadlines for obtaining and building props, in conjunction with the <strong>TECHNICAL DIRECTOR<\/strong> and <strong>PRODUCTION MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Assigns the task of building or obtaining props to crew members.<\/li>\n<li>Supervises and participates in the construction of props.<\/li>\n<li>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<\/li>\n<li>Keeps records of rented or borrowed props, including a detailed description, its value, the lender&#8217;s name and address, and any special agreements regarding their use; copies this information to the staff <strong>PRODUCTION and OPERATIONS<\/strong> <strong>MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Checks whether the prop exists in storage before a purchase or loan is made<\/li>\n<li>Keeps all props organized and safely stored<\/li>\n<li>Maintains a clear and open dialogue with the <strong>STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>and\/or the <strong>ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER <\/strong>throughout rehearsal process, regarding additions, deletions or changes to props<\/li>\n<li>Attends technical and dress rehearsals to check condition and wear of props, and to take general notes<\/li>\n<li>Maintains and makes repairs to props during the run of the show<\/li>\n<li>Handles any special pre-setting that must occur and cannot be delegated to Stage Management<\/li>\n<li>Arranges for the transportation of all borrowed or rented props<\/li>\n<li>Returns props to lenders promptly, usually the Monday following the closing night<\/li>\n<li>Liaises with the School&#8217;s <strong>WORK STUDY SET\/PROPS ASSISTANT <\/strong>or the <strong style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\">RESIDENT SHOP SUPERVISOR <\/strong><span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\">when borrowing or returning stock items to storage<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Maintains the organization and neatness of the props storage area, in conjunction with the <strong>WORK STUDY SET\/PROPS ASSISTANT<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\"><strong>ADMINISTRATION AND SCHEDULING<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Makes a detailed budget for the purchase, construction and rental of props<\/li>\n<li>Contributes to the creation of a detailed WEEKLY and DAILY SCHEDULE, produced by the <strong>PRODUCTION MANAGER<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Attends all production meetings, and organizes department meetings as required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>SAFETY<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>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<\/li>\n<li>Compiles, where possible, a record of WHMIS MATERIAL DATA SAFETY SHEETS referencing materials used<\/li>\n<li>Ensures that safety rules are observed and safety equipment is used correctly by all crew members<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>UNDER A UNIONIZED STAFFING STRUCTURE<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Works closely with Stage Management to determine props placement and flow<\/li>\n<li>Determines the location of props tables<\/li>\n<li>Takes responsibility for all props once they are loaded in<\/li>\n<li>Is responsible for stage\/deck cleanliness; sweeps, mops and vacuums stage areas as necessary<\/li>\n<li>Hands props to performers, as necessary, and assists Stage Management in props tracking during the performance<\/li>\n<li>Is responsible for obtaining, placing and monitoring all water, cups, kleenex, and other performer-related sundry items onstage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 31.7pt\"><strong>Note<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>This position carries considerable <strong>personal responsibility<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 27.65pt\">Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and accept limited liability for the items they rent or borrow. <strong>Students will not be responsible for legitimate, performance-related, accidental damage<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Personally responsible for the safe storage of all props, especially those borrowed and rented<\/li>\n<li>Personally responsible for the safe and timely return of all rented and borrowed props<\/li>\n<li>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<\/li>\n<li>May be held financially responsible for repairs or replacement, depending on the circumstances<\/li>\n<li>Production Assignment grades may be withheld, or an INCOMPLETE grade given, should returns not happen in a prompt and timely manner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt;margin-right: 29.4pt\">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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-Normal\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">To be used in conjunction with the <strong>HEAD OF DEPARTMENT <\/strong>job description.<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">The demands of this position, and the hours worked, will vary with each production.<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-BodyText\" style=\"margin-left: 5pt\">THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION MAY BE ALTERED WITHOUT NOTICE BY THE RESIDENT STAFF AND FACULTY<\/p>\n<p class=\"import-Normal\">\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"menu_order":23,"template":"","meta":{"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[],"class_list":["post-87","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"part":100,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/87","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/87\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":478,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/87\/revisions\/478"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/100"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/87\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=87"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=87"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=87"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pressbooks.library.torontomu.ca\/productionhandbook\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=87"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}