Properties Manager

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We are looking for an energetic, enthusiastic, and reliable person, perhaps with a crafts background, to fill this position.Duties include managing ("running") thee shows per year in October, February, and May.

• Attend Progress Meeting to learn about the opera's production and props that will be used.
• Arrive at the theatre at least one hour prior to curtain to prepare for show.
• Refine props list provided by Stage Manager and/or Properties Artisan and prepare a working props list to use during dress week and all performances. Share this list with Stage Manager and Production Manager.
• Manage props during tech and dress weeks and all performances.
• Ensure all props are returned to the props cabinet at the end of each rehearsal and performance.
• Place and collect props onstage before top of show, during acts, during intermissions, and at end of show.
• Keep props cabinet tidy and well organized.
• Ensure that all principals and chorus members enter the stage with their correct props.
• Work with principals to place props off stage in a strategic location if quick changes are necessary.
• Educate singers as to the proper use of props.
• Encourage singers to handle props in a manner so as not to damage unnecessarily.
• Discourage singers and chorus members from playing with props, especially those that are not used by them.
• Dress set pieces (e.g., bedspreads) at top of show and during intermissions.
• Handoff or receive props offstage during acts.
• Change batteries on any props as needed before each rehearsal and performance.
• Repair props as needed during dress week and all performances. This may involve using a glue gun, a needle and thread, spray paint, hair spray, or something more elaborate where it may be necessary to solicit the help of someone more knowledgeable.
• Wash props dishes and glassware - wipe rim of glasses with alcohol - to ensure sanitary use of props.
• Purchase practical food (e.g., bread, cheese, sodas, drumsticks, etc.) to be used as props during dress week and all performances.
• Make realistic looking drinks using food coloring or tea as directed.
• Take direction from singers regarding pick-up of props, or other personal issues.
• Take direction/request notes from Director, Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, and Production Manager at end of each rehearsal.
• Carefully follow directions given by Director, Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, and Production Manager, asking for clarification when necessary so as not to misinterpret communication.
• Work with Crew Chief to ensure that the crew is setting furniture pieces.
• Be available to Crew Chief to provide any necessary assistance to crew.
• Be available to assist costumers with quick changes or grooming of singers.
• Strike and store all props after run of opera.