Valuable and irreplaceable items are safely locked away after rehearsal and performances.Ī Working Propis a facsimile of the final prop and used only in rehearsals for actors to practice using, usually when they are 'off-book' (know their lines).

Remind your cast to check ALL their props prior to all rehearsals and performances. They are kept with their costumes in the dressing room and are the actors' responsibility as well.

Personal Props are items actors carry inside their costume(s) or wear, like pocket watches, keychains, pens, glasses, etc. Stage Managers (SM) make notes of all changes in the prompt book (script), so check your list with theirs. Hand Props (objects actors carry on) and Set Props (objects pre-set in the scene, ready to use by actors) get added and cut during the rehearsals. Tracking your props and updating the checklist is an on-going process from rehearsals to opening night.

As you read the script highlight and add the props to the list (see form below), then when you meet with the director go over your Props List together. It is important to read the script carefully. Most scripts have its Props List, Running Props List, or Props Checklist on the back pages along with production notes.