ABSTRACT

Keeping track of all the props requested by both the designer for the visual appearance and the director for the action of the play is the responsibility of the properties director. This is managed through the use of a prop list . The prop list should have every prop listed and a detailed notation of any details the properties director requires to track the prop or information about its use or look. Using a simple form to enter this information allows the management of “adds” and “cuts” and is a quickly accessed organizational tool. Most prop lists use column headers similar to this:

PAGE TRACK # ITEM/PROP CHARACTER/FUNCTION DESCRIPTION ASSIGNMENT ACQUIRE STATUS

The page number , just as in the preliminary prop list, connects the prop being worked on to the specifi c page number in the script allowing the artisan to quickly fi nd specifi c information. This is especially important when working on paper props where dialogue may be read from a letter or document. Copying exactly what is written in the script keeps the actor focused on the scene and prevents distraction. The page number reference is also a shortcut to fi nding how a prop is used when talking with a designer or in production meetings.