Props

Definition

Props, short for properties, are the objects used on stage or in performance that support the action or enhance the visual storytelling. They can range from small items like books and furniture to larger set pieces, and are crucial for creating the world of the performance. In the context of performance studies, props are not just functional but also symbolic, adding layers of meaning and helping to communicate character relationships and themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Props can serve practical purposes, such as helping actors perform their roles or providing essential items needed for the plot.
2. They can also have symbolic meanings, representing deeper themes or character traits within a performance.
3. Props are categorized into two types: hand props (small items handled by actors) and set props (larger pieces that contribute to the overall setting).
4. The selection and design of props are often crucial during the rehearsal process to ensure they align with the director's vision.
5. In Goffman's dramaturgical approach, props are viewed as essential tools that help shape the social interactions and performances individuals present in everyday life.

Review Questions

• How do props enhance the storytelling in a performance?
  • Props enhance storytelling by adding visual context and supporting the narrative. They can establish a character's background or personality through their choice and use. For example, a sword might signify bravery or conflict, while a book might represent knowledge or introspection. This layered meaning helps audiences connect emotionally with characters and understand the plot more deeply.
• Discuss the relationship between props and character development within a performance.
  • Props play a significant role in character development by reflecting traits, motivations, and changes throughout a performance. For instance, a character who starts with a simple prop may evolve to handle more complex items as their journey progresses. This visual transformation can signify personal growth or conflict resolution. Additionally, interactions with props can reveal underlying emotions and relationships between characters.
• Analyze how Goffman's concept of performance relates to the use of props in everyday social interactions.
  • Goffman's concept of performance suggests that individuals present themselves in specific ways to create impressions on others. In this context, props can be seen as tools for social interaction that help convey identity or status. For instance, someone carrying a briefcase may project professionalism, while an artist with paintbrushes might express creativity. Just as in theater, these props shape perceptions and influence how individuals navigate their social environments.

Related terms

Set Design: The creation of the physical environment in which a performance takes place, involving the arrangement and decoration of the stage to reflect the time and place of the story.

Costumes: The clothing and accessories worn by actors to represent their characters, conveying information about their social status, personality, and development.

Stage Directions: Instructions in a script that describe the movement of actors and placement of props, helping to visualize how a scene should be performed.