Theatrical property facts for kids
A prop is a short word for property. It means any object that actors use during a show, play, movie, or TV program. Props are things that can be moved around on a stage or a film set. They are different from the scenery (the background), the costumes (what actors wear), and the technical equipment (like lights or cameras).
Props help make a story feel real. For example, if an actor needs to eat dinner in a scene, the food on the table is a prop. If someone reads a book, the book is a prop. Even a pipe an actor pretends to smoke is a prop.
What Are Props?
Props are all the small items that actors interact with or that help set the scene. Think of a living room set: the furniture, the lamps, and even the pictures on the wall are all props. They are important because they make the world of the play or movie believable for the audience.
Who Manages Props?
A special person called a properties master is in charge of all the props. They make sure every prop is ready for the show and in the right place. They also keep track of them so nothing gets lost.
Sometimes, an actor is responsible for their own small props, like a fan or a special piece of jewelry. This is called a personal prop. The actor makes sure they have it with them when they need it for their performance.
Images for kids
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Props storage room of the Mannheim National Theatre, Germany
See also
In Spanish: Utilería para niños
