Butts Acting Guild Dance Company

Props Master’s Duties: Tech to Post-Production

With Examples & Best Practices

Butts Acting Guild

Pre-Production Duties

• Meet with Director 

• Make props list (Director may add props not in script)

Technical & Dress Rehearsals

1. Prepare Props

• Label prop table by cast member 

• Ensure all props are acquired, labeled, and functional.

• Coordinate with SM for prop tables and placement.

• Train actors and crew on safe prop use.

Examples & Best Practices:

• Use prop tables labeled by scene and actor.

• Check fragile/breakaway props daily.

• Bring duplicates for frequently used items.

Performance Period

2. Manage Props During Shows

• Set props pre-show and check placement.

• Supervise crew handling props backstage.

• Repair or replace broken props quickly.

• Wash dishes, dispose of food used in show.

Examples & Best Practices:

• Helpful to be backstage during shows.

• Create a pre-show prop checklist.

• Use glow tape for prop placement in dark areas.

• Assign crew members specific prop responsibilities.

Post-Production

3. Strike & Restore

• Inventory and return borrowed or rented props.

• Store reusable props safely for future productions.

• Clear and restore backstage and storage spaces.

Examples & Best Practices:

• Clean and repair props before storage.

• Thank crew for their backstage efforts.

Summary

In community theatre, the Props Master is:

• The provider – ensuring all props are ready and safe

• The organizer – tracking placement and crew duties

• The troubleshooter – fixing or replacing props quickly