How to Set a Props Table

Setting up the props table correctly is crucial to a production running smoothly. By being familiar with your script and using a little planning setting up the props table can be a breeze.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• List of Props
• Masking Tape
• Props
• Props Table(s)
• Black Marker
• Long sheet(s) of paper (table length)

1. Set up your props tables. Use your props list to estimate how many tables you will need. Check with your stage manager to see where the tables should be located (some companies put them in the wings and others in the green room).

2. Cover the table(s) with the long sheet(s) of paper and tape down on the underside of the table.

3. Set out the props on top of the paper. Use your script (and a little common sense) to determine the best layout of your props. I like to group items used in a scene together and to put fragile items either in the middle or towards the back (when a wall backs up my table).

4. Next you'll need to tape off a space for each prop and mark the space with the name of that prop. This will involve removing and replacing props as you go along. Make the space big enough for the prop but not so big that you are wasting space.

5. Place your props on the table(s) in their proper place.

6. Test your layout during a reheasal. As the production progresses you may need to add/remove props.

Tips & Warnings

• Control your props table. No one should touch any item unless their character uses it.
• Do not allow items other than the marked props to be stored on your props table
• Make sure props are returned to their proper place after each use
• After a performance do a quick inventory to make sure all of your props have been returned.