Midland Players Handbook

Handbook - Production

Production management ensures that the by the time of the Get-in all the necessary preparation is complete. Roughly in chronological order, this includes ordering the scripts, paying the performing right, making sure that all the non-acting roles are filled and liaising with the Drama Studio to show them the set design and discuss technical issues such as safety regulations. These activities may be assigned to a single Production Manager and or to Production Assistants. Ensuring the availability of appropriate costumes and props & furniture usually requires the appointment of Wardrobe and Properties Managers.

The Wardrobe Manager will conduct research and consult with the Director to agree styles appropriate for each character, and then arrange to borrow, rent, buy or make the costumes or, if available, to retrieve them from our own store. This includes shoes and wigs. During rehearsal, if costumes are unfamiliar (eg wide skirts) or integral to the plot (eg taken off) it maybe helpful to the actors to be able to practise with representative garments. For a contemporary play the Actors will often be able to provide their own costumes. During the run, the Wardrobe Manager may be called upon to make running repairs, assist with costume changes and perhaps arrange for overnight cleaning if a costume is dirtied during a performance. At the end of the run they must ensure that all costumes are returned to their owners. Judy our chairman has established a reputation on the public speaking circuit with an entertaining and informative talk on her work as a wardrobe manager for Midland Players. If your group is interested in hearing her speak, Judy can be contacted on: Judy.Colby@care4free.net

The Properties Manager will research and consult with the Director to agree props and furniture appropriate for the production and then arrange to borrow, rent, buy or make the objects or, if available, to retrieve them from our own store. During rehearsal it is helpful to the actors to be able to practise with props that they will have to handle such as cigarettes, glasses, cases, etc. These do not have to be the actual props intended for the play but may be simply representative. During the run the properties manager may continue to control the props, but this will be in the role of an Assistant Stage Manager. At the end of the run they must ensure that all properties are returned to their owners.

The production manager should also arrange for a Photographer to take photographs during rehearsals for display on the foyer boards during the public performances and as mementoes for the cast and crew. Most of the photographs on this website were taken by Peter Colby or Phil George.