Being props master can be stressful - But fun! 'Under The Overcoat'

Last weekend was the final weekend of the show.

During the show my responsibility was to ensure the cast had their costume ready, were wearing it correctly, and that the props were all correct and present on the props table. This was really important because the table was on view to the audience and once the show begun, all the prop changes were done on the stage.

The props table that would be on display

This job I actually found rather stressful. After each show (and the rehearsals) the actors in their own rush would leave numerous clothes and props scattered everywhere. This meant Eve and I had to then gather them all up and tidy them or re-arrange them. This was using more of time then necessary and the question "Why is my..." really began to grate also. To solve this problem we addressed the actors and asked them to please take responsibility for their costume/prop once they had used it. We had to ask this several times and I can be quite a soft touch but learnt to stand my ground.

I mingled with the audience during the intermission, offering authentic Italian food to compliment the theme of the story and give the cast time to prepare for Act II. One night, I also got to see the rather hilarious sight of half of the audience members gasping for water after eating curry that was just too hot for them to handle. He he

During the show, I was the soundboard operator. This involved playing sound effects and music at just the right moments and fading them in/out effectively. I enjoyed this role, and when I had time peeked over Eve as she ran the light board. It was interesting to see how lighting can create a dramatic look on stage and add to the imagery, I wanted the opportunity to run the light board in the future and create some light design myself. It would be useful skill to be able to design lights, not only for in the theatre - but also during photography shoots and films.

Dramatic lighting effect creating during a 'Train Crash' scene

Eve and I in the tech box.. where the off-stage magic happens

After the show comes post-production which involved returning any props, dry cleaning and returning the beautiful saris and other garments lent by the Indian Embassy ladies. This I took upon myself and actually went into the Indian Embassy in Rome which I have to say is really a beautiful, beautiful building inside and out.

Next week we will begin work on pre-production for the upcoming show - Hedda Gabler. I am keen to start work on this as I will be involved from the very beginning, able to conduct my own research and create suitable costume for the characters. I felt that I did not quite have that with Under the Overcoat because I joined later.

I received positive feedback from both Theo and Gaby. Theo recognised that I am a hard worker however advised me that I need to be more confident when making decisions - If question myself, then other people will too. I found this feedback useful and will be more assertive when working with the next project. I feel like I will be more confident in doing so as I will have been present from the start.

Theodora, the cast, and I before the final show