Welcome to the World of Set & Properties Design

In this microcourse, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of this crucial role in the theatre industry.

What is it?

Set and properties design is a crucial aspect of theatre production, responsible for creating the visual world of the play. It involves designing the physical environment and objects that the actors interact with. The goal is to enhance the storytelling, create a sense of place and time, and support the actors’ performances

Let’s dive deeper into the responsibilities of a theatre design team.

Key Elements of Set Design

Set design in theatre involves several key elements that work together to create a believable and engaging stage environment, including:

• Overall look of the stage
  This encompasses the entire visual aesthetic, including the arrangement of set pieces, the colour palette, and the use of space.
• Sets
  These are the designed elements of the stage, such as walls, platforms, and backdrops, that define the location and environment of the play.
• Props
  Short for properties, these are the objects used by the actors on stage, including hand props (e.g., books, weapons) and set props (e.g., furniture).
• Furniture
  This includes all the movable items on stage that actors use, like chairs, tables, and beds. It contributes to the realism and functionality of the set.

The Role of the Scenic Designer

The scenic designer is responsible for creating the overall look of the stage, including sets, props, and furniture. They work closely with the director to bring the play’s vision to life.

Their responsibilities include:

• Conceptualising the design based on the script and the director’s interpretation.
• Creating sketches, models, and technical drawings of the set.
• Selecting materials and construction methods (in collaboration with the technical director).
• Collaborating with other designers (lighting, costume) to ensure a cohesive visual design.
• Overseeing the installation of the set.

Types of Stages and their impact on Set Design

The type of stage significantly influences set design. Each stage type presents unique challenges and opportunities.

Proscenium Stage

The audience faces the stage from one direction. Set design often emphasises creating a ‘picture’ within the proscenium arch. Allows for elaborate backdrops and hidden mechanisms.

The Importance of Properties in Stage Design

Properties, or props, are the objects that actors use on stage. They can range from small, hand-held items to larger pieces of furniture.

Props are essential for:

• Creating a sense of realism and grounding the play in a specific time and place.
• Helping to tell the story and reveal character. A specific prop can symbolise a character’s personality or a key plot point.
• Supporting the actors’ performances. Props can give actors something to do with their hands and enhance their physicality.
• Adding visual interest and detail to the stage.

The Role of the Props Master

The props master is responsible for sourcing, building, and maintaining the props used in a production. They work closely with the scenic designer and director.

Their duties include:

• Reading the script and creating a prop list.
• Sourcing props from various sources (purchasing, renting, borrowing, building).
• Constructing or modifying props as needed.
• Maintaining the props in good condition throughout the production.
• Managing the prop budget.
• Ensuring that all props are in the correct place for each performance.

The Design Process

The design process for sets and properties involves
several key stages:

• Script Analysis:
  The designer reads the script to understand the play’s setting, time period, and themes, and identifies the necessary sets and props.
• Research
  The designer researches the historical period, locations, and any specific requirements of the play. This may involve looking at photographs, artwork, and historical documents.
• Conceptualisation
  The designer develops a design concept, which is the overall vision for the look of the set and props. This concept should support the play’s themes and the director’s interpretation.
• Sketches and Models
  The designer creates sketches and/or models to visualise the set and props. These may be hand- drawn or computer-generated.
• Collaboration
  The designer collaborates with the director, other designers (costume, lighting), and the technical director to refine the design and ensure it meets the needs of the production.
• Technical Drawings
  The designer creates detailed technical drawings that show the dimensions, materials, and construction details of the set and props.

Collaboration

Set and properties design is a highly collaborative process. Effective communication and teamwork are essential. Key collaborators include:

• Director:
  Provides the artistic vision and overall concept for the play.
• Scenic Designer:
  Creates the visual world of the play.
• Props Master:
  Oversees the technical aspects of the production, including set construction and installation.
• Technical Director:
  The designer creates sketches and/or models to visualise the set and props. These may be hand- drawn or computer-generated.
• Stage Manager:
  Coordinates all backstage activity and ensures smooth transitions during the show.
• Lighting Designer:
  Designs the lighting, which works in conjunction with the set design.
• Costume Designer:
  Designs the costumes, which also contribute to the overall visual aesthetic.