TH 2399
Production Practicum II
Props Assistant
1 cr.

Scott Boyle

Office: MPAC 152
Phone: 218-726-8320
Email: smboyle@d.umn.edu

Job Description:
The Props Assistant works with the Props Coordinator to with the construction, buying and borrowing of all Furniture Props, Hand Props and Set Dressing.

Planning Period:
- Read the script first for your enjoyment and to become familiar with the show.  Then review the script to create a preliminary prop list based on stage direction and character dialogue

- Identify early any props which may prove challenging either in terms of acquiring or other special circumstances.

- Become familiar with the scenic design. Study all drawings, renderings, models and research to understand period style and taste.

- Meet with the Prop Coordinator to create a work list of props which may need extra time or specialization.

- Conduct your own research for any specialized props.

- Once list is finalized, work with the Props Coordinator to create a production calendar so projects get completed in a timely manner.

Pre-Production Period:
- Help the Prop Coordinator pull all rehearsal props prior to the first rehearsal and coordinate with the stage manager for their storage and security.  Rehearsal props should be clearly labeled as to what they are if they are “standing in” for something else.

- Help to complete a budget analysis of bought and built items paying particular attention to consumables as they generally are the most expensive items on your list.

- Develop your own build schedule so that built or modified props will be finished on time.

Build Period:
- Help to create lists of props which the Stagecraft Practicum can assist in building, modifying or painting.

- Work with and/or supervise the crews whenever your schedule allows.  You should put in 4 hours a week minimum in the shop during normal shop hours.

- If directed by the Props Coordinator, submit web-links, purchasing lists to the Faculty Supervisor for purchasing.  DO NOT USE YOUR OWN MONEY FOR ANY PURCHASES UNLESS YOU PLAN ON OWNING THE ITEM AFTER THE RUN.

Technical Rehearsals/Dress Rehearsals/Performances:
- Prior to the first Technical Rehearsal, attend the “Props Parade” with the Props Coordinator, Stage Manager and Director to physically look at all of the real props which will be used.  Discuss any changes that may be needed and when food or drink items will start being used.

- Assist the Stage Manager in setting up the prop tables backstage.

- If needed, teach the running/shift crew any special procedures regarding props.

- Be available during Technical and Dress Rehearsals to assist with changes needed during breaks or to help with collaborating on the notes which come up during rehearsal.

- Once the show opens you may be responsible for taking care of any broken or damaged props.  

Strike and Post-Production:
- Attend Strike and work with the crews in returning or storing of UMD owned props.

- Collect all rented or borrowed items so they can be found and returned in a timely manner.

- Check with Props Coordinator or Faculty Supervisor if there is a question as to what should be kept or scrapped.

Grading:
Final grade will be determined by the Faculty Supervisor after consulting necessary production team members with regards to how well the duties listed above were executed.  If areas for improvement are noted, you will receive a written explanation with what was observed and suggestions for improvement.

Timelines, Due Dates, Shop Time Responsibilities:
During the course of the design and production of the show, the department expect to be available for questions, to help with projects or to lead crews as deemed appropriate. Working with the professor of record, the student is to a set schedule which sets aside time for design/prop work (studio or planning time), weekly meeting with their advisor, and time set in their area’s shop.  It is also expected the student tries to adhere to the schedule of due dates so as to not delay the production by affecting others’ job responsibilities.

Key Dates:

Strike - date:_________________________ time:_______________________________

Tech-Dress - dates:_____________________________________________

Props Parade - date range:__________________________________________

Rehearsal Props Due: ______________________________________

Prep/Shop time: 4hr/wk min: __________________________________________________

By signing below, I am acknowledging my advisor and I have discussed the dates and responsibilities of my production role and I agree to maintain these dates to the best of my ability.  I also acknowledge if for whatever reason I need to change my schedule because of either work of school schedules, I will contact my advisor and work to find a mutually agreeable solution.  I further acknowledge that keeping the dates and schedules agreed upon and meeting the other deadlines will be used as an assessment tool to determine my final grade.

Student Signature:__________________________________________________Date:______________

Advisor Signature:__________________________________________________Date:_______________