Properties Design
Properties Design, often called "Props Design," is the art of creating and managing all the physical objects that actors use or interact with during a performance. This includes everything from furniture and decorative items to personal objects characters hold or use. Props designers work closely with directors and other designers to ensure that every object on stage helps tell the story and fits the time period and style of the show. Unlike set design which deals with the overall stage environment, props design focuses on the specific items that bring scenes to life and help actors perform their roles effectively.
Examples in Resumes
Created historically accurate Properties Design for Shakespeare's Macbeth
Managed Props Design and fabrication for a 5-show season at regional theater
Led Properties Design team for Broadway musical, coordinating over 200 period-specific items
Typical job title: "Properties Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Properties Designers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Networking Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage a properties design budget for a large-scale production?
Expected Answer: A senior props designer should discuss budget allocation across different prop categories, strategies for cost-saving through rentals vs. builds, and maintaining contingency funds for unexpected needs or repairs.
Q: How do you handle last-minute design changes from a director while maintaining production timeline?
Expected Answer: Should explain prioritization strategies, team delegation, resource management, and how to maintain good communication with all departments while problem-solving under pressure.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you research and ensure historical accuracy in properties design?
Expected Answer: Should discuss research methods, use of museum archives, historical documents, and consultation with period experts to ensure authenticity while working within budget constraints.
Q: What is your process for tracking and maintaining props during a show's run?
Expected Answer: Should explain inventory systems, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and coordination with stage management for proper prop placement and handling.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between set dressing and props?
Expected Answer: Should explain that props are generally items handled by actors, while set dressing includes decorative elements that complete the look of the set but aren't typically moved or used.
Q: How do you organize a basic props run sheet?
Expected Answer: Should describe creating lists of props by scene, noting entrance and exit points, and tracking which character uses what props when.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic prop construction and modification
- Props organization and tracking
- Shopping and sourcing props
- Understanding of theater terminology
Mid (2-5 years)
- Period research and recreation
- Budget management
- Team coordination
- Advanced fabrication techniques
Senior (5+ years)
- Large-scale production management
- Department supervision
- Complex prop creation and special effects
- Season planning and budgeting
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on fabrication experience
- Lack of knowledge about theater safety regulations
- Poor organization skills
- No experience with period research
- Unable to work within budget constraints
Related Terms
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