PROPERTIES Designer(s) - 2024 Summer/Fall Season - American Shakespeare Center

The American Shakespeare Center (Staunton, VA) is seeking PROPERTIES DESIGNER / PROPS MASTER(S) for our 2024 Summer/Fall Season and for Future Consideration. Each show is being considered for an individual designer -- this is not a seasonal / staff position.

The ASC was formed in 1988 in Central Virginia, and in 2001 the Blackfriars Playhouse was built - the world's only recreation of Shakespeare's indoor theatre. 

Currently Playing: 
JULIUS CAESAR 
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM 
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE 

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (abridged)[revised](again) 
Rehearsals begin: 05/29/2024 
Opening: 06/14/2024 

MACBETH 
Rehearsals begin: 06/13/2024 
Opening: 07/19/2024 

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST 
Rehearsals begin: 06/20/2024 
Opening: 07/27/2024 

THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR 
Rehearsals begin: 08/06/2024 
Opening: 09/13/2024 

DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS 
Rehearsals begin: 09/19/2024 
Opening: 10/18/2024 

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 
Rehearsals begin: 10/29/2024 
Opening: 12/07/2024 

JOB DESCRIPTION: 

PROPERTIES DESIGNER / PROPS MASTER 
PLEASE NOTE: There is no"Scenic Designer" in the traditional sense, as the Blackhouse Playhouse itself is the set. The Playhouse does not have traditional theatrical lights or sound. Shows are performed using "Shakespeare's Staging Conditions" with audiences seated in a thrust configuration with Universal Lighting (audience and actors in the same pool of light) encouraging Audience Contact, seamless transitions between scenes, and actors doubling multiple roles in a show. 

• Design, prepare, pull, modify, buy, or build properties for ASC productions. All properties and set pieces must be built to a quality able withstand the rigors of the performance runs for each production.
• Embrace the “Pull, Modify, Buy, Build” order-of-operations for in-stock pieces. 
• Provide scale drawings and mock-ups of props (as requested) by directors.
• Assist the loading in and out of properties and set pieces during rehearsals and tech
• Paint props and scenery using best practices and techniques.
• Maintain, repair, inventory, and acquire theatrical weapons.
• Work with stage managers, and directors to ensure the safe use, care, and training for all properties, set pieces, pyrotechnics, traps, etc.
• Attend production and department meetings as scheduled.
• Create and maintain properties lists for each production.
• Attend first rehearsals/design presentations for each production.
• Have rehearsal or actual properties available at the beginning of the rehearsal period for each production.
• Attend tech and dress rehearsals for each production.
• Have all properties completed for the dress rehearsal of each production.

 

Due to the unique nature of the Blackfriars Playhouse, this position does not have a minimum/maximum hours requirement. This position is compensated with a flat fee, much like how a Costume Designer would be contracted to come in and design / build a show. 

Special consideration will be given to LOCAL CANDIDATES or candidates interested in multiple shows.  (We would like to bring on one (1) Props Master for EARNEST/MACBETH, rehearsing in rep.) Additional designer(s) would be hired for WIVES and DRACULA accordingly. 

Qualifications:
Preference will be given to applicants who hold:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in technical theatre, plant, building operations & maintenance, and/or construction field
• A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. (Though Prop shop and theatre are within walking distance of housing, off-site storage units house our larger props and furniture storage.)
• Knowledge of up-to-date theatre safety policies, procedures and guidelines
• Knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws associated with performing arts and building safety
• Skilled in leading and coordinating work by others, including contractors
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) skills
• Excellent analytical and problem solving skills
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and climb stairs and ladders comfortably
• High degree of organizational skills with the ability to be flexible and multi-task with accuracy

 

Compensation:

• Flat Fee of $3,150 per show. 
• Housing available for out of town applicants. 
• Travel Stipend / reimbursement available.

If interested, please email Thomas J. Coppola (Production Manager) with "ASC 2024 PROPS MASTER SUBMISSION" in the Subject Line. Please include your updated resume, any available digital portfolio/website, and a brief letter of interest. 
Send to: artistic@AmericanShakespeareCenter.com

The American Shakespeare Center is committed to anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices. Our goal is to implement best practices that maintain a healthy company culture and ethos that is welcoming to all who want to join this theatre. Members of the BIPOC, LGBTQ and/or other under-represented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Thank you. 

Salary: $3,150 flat fee, per production