How to Make Props & Backdrops for Drama

Props and backdrops help establish the world of the play. For larger productions there are usually two teams designated to deal with all props and all backdrops, with a prop designer or other leader delegating tasks. Backdrops often fall under the terrain of a technical director. On smaller, community or school productions these roles can overlap or be taken on by the director. If you are masterminding these components alone or instructing a team, basic considerations apply.

Things You'll Need

• Script
• Pen and paper
• Backdrop material
• Scenic paint
• White primer paint
• Paintbrushes
• Wood or other base
• Base prop materials (wood, cardboard, plastic, among others)
• Prop bonding materials (hot glue, duct tape, screws and bolts)
• Prop detail materials (paint, construction paper)

Instructions

Planning

1. List the props and backdrops you will need. Go through the script and double-check the stage directions for specifics.

2. Sketch a design for construction of all needed props and backdrops, taking into account desired size, weight, appearance, functionality and durability and signifying areas that need more detail.

3. Present your lists and sketches to other key personnel. Consult with costuming--to designate any costuming or prop overlaps--and set construction people--to plan with them how the backdrop will be hung on the stage.

4. Choose the material the backdrop will be painted on. Most commonly, muslin fabric is used.

5. Examine the sketch design for the props and determine materials to be used and how parts of the finished props will be connected. Depending on the need and aesthetic, base materials can be various types of wood, cardboard, plastic, fabric, clay, metal or wire. Determine the individual bonding materials for each prop to ensure its peak effectiveness. This could be hot glue, duct tape, screws and bolts, nails, iron-on or Velcro.

6. Procure the backdrop material, making sure it will run the full length of the stage. Pick up some scenic paint, paintbrushes and wood or some type of base to set the fabric on while painting. Buy the prop material and bonding supplies.

Backdrops

1. Stretch the fabric out on the base. You will eventually need to connect the top of the fabric to hooks or a poll so that it can be hung onstage, so hang the top of it over the base while you are painting. Staple the fabric down to ensure a smooth paint job.

2. Cover the fabric with white primer paint before getting to work.

3. Paint according to your sketch, beginning with the background. Let that dry and add the foreground, including buildings, trees, lampposts and other elements, then add the detail.

4. Make sure the paint is fully dried and then hang the backdrop.

Props

1. Build your props according to the sketches, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

2. Add decorations and detail to the props. Use any appropriate material, such as paint, construction paper, tissue paper, glitter or feathers.

3. Check to ensure all props are functional in accordance to how they will be used on stage.

4. Determine if the audience can tell what the props are meant to be from far away. Usually a backdrop will be put in place as soon as it is completed, giving you time to make necessary adjustments. During a dress rehearsal stand at the back of the theater and determine if all props fulfill their intended purpose.

References

• Construction of Props and Backdrops

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Theatre Designer Resource