Position Overview
The Props Manager/Artisan works in collaboration with each production’s director, designers and production staff to realize the artistic vision of Nashville Rep through the sourcing, construction, modification, and maintenance of props for all productions. This position oversees the planning, budgeting, procurement, and fabrication of props while ensuring that all items are safe, functional, and appropriate for performances.
Working as part of the production team the Props Artisan/Manager works closely with scenic, costumes,and stage management departments to ensure props are integrated effectively into each production and are delivered on schedule to support rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.
Reports to: Director of Production
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Key Responsibilities
Create and/or procure all hand props, furniture pieces, set dressing, consumables, and/or specialty items for each show. Including, but not limited to:
- Pulling and altering props from storage
- Shopping and purchasing props
- Constructing props
- Providing research for directors and artistic teams on prop designs and aesthetics; adhering to appropriate period styles, location-specific styles, and the Set Designer and Directors creative vision
- Research specialty props and provide a construction plan with estimated cost, materials, and a timeline for construction of specialty props
- Build props with appropriate construction techniques and adhering to a high visual standard
- Maintain communication with Director of Production and creative team of the show regarding status and progress of all props
- Attend all design and production meetings with necessary paperwork outlined by Director of Production
- Attend rehearsals as needed
- Create and provide an accurate list of all props to the creative and stage management teams, updating as necessary to reflect adds, cuts, and other changes to props as they occur
- Provide requested prop adds to the rehearsal room in a timely manner
- Provide hand prop and furniture “do-fers” for use in rehearsals in the absence of the actual item
- Manage overhire artisans as necessary to ensure completion of prop builds
- Responsible for the load-in and strike of props from the rehearsal spaces and TPAC performance spaces, working in cooperation with the Technical Director and Director of production
- Repair and replace props in a timely manner during the run of show
- Create and maintain budget paperwork and adhere to deadlines and budget given by Director of Production
- Provide props for marketing photoshoots and other Rep functions as necessary
- Maintain, restock, repair, and/or clean props storage area after shows and rentals
- Maintain the prop shop, including purchasing supplies, following proper safety protocol, and maintaining general cleanliness