Props Designer

  • Contract / Stipend
  • Chicago
  • April 1, 2025

Website refractedco Refracted Theatre Company

Bringing nuance back through innovative theatrical storytelling

Refracted Theatre Company seeks a Props Designer for its production of Dream Hou$e written by Eliana Pipes and directed by Laura Alcalá Baker. Refracted Theatre Company uses innovative theatrical storytelling in order to invite its audience to expand their perspectives around divisive issues, inspiring empathic discourse and civil action. For more information about the company please see www.refractedco.com.

Synopsis:

As two Latina sisters prepare to sell their childhood home on a reality TV show, they see an opportunity to profit from their rapidly gentrifying neighborhood. But once the cameras start rolling, long-buried family secrets surface, forcing them to confront the complicated truth about their past and the uncertain future they face. This gripping play unearths the personal and communal cost of change—exploring identity, legacy, and the forces that shape our sense of home.

Dream Hou$e has undergone a comprehensive development journey, culminating in notable productions. The play’s evolution began with a 29-hour workshop in December 2018, facilitated by Checkmark Productions at INTAR Theatre. Subsequent readings and workshops were hosted by esteemed organizations such as Ars Nova’s ANT Fest, San Diego Repertory Theatre, and Two River Theater between 2019 and 2021. The world premiere unfolded in spring 2022 through a co-production among Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Long Wharf Theatre in Connecticut, and Baltimore Center Stage, under the direction of Laurie Woolery.

Production Schedule:

Dream Hou$e will be produced in The Bookspan Theatre at the Den Theatre in Wicker Park in September-October, with rehearsals beginning in July.

  • Designer Run: August 25th
  • Paper Tech: September 3rd
  • Load in: September 1st
  • Build: September 1st – September 5th
  • Dry Tech & Spacing: September 5th
  • Tech: September 6th – September 17th (Mondays off)
  • Preview Start: September 12th
  • Final Preview: September 17th
  • Press Opening: September 18th
  • Opening September 19th
  • Performance Run: Thursday through Sunday (7:30pm Th-Sa, 3pm Su)
  • Closing: October 18th
  • Strike: October 19th
  • Possible extension Closing: October 25th
  • Extension Strike: October 26th

Number of Performances: 23

Venue: The Bookspan at The Den

Number of seats: 60-80

Job Description:

PROPS: The Props Director is responsible for sourcing, building, and managing all props needed for the production, including furniture, hand props, custom fabrications, and specialty materials. This production will require extensive prop sourcing as well as some fabrication to achieve the necessary design elements. The Props Director will work closely with the Scenic Designer to ensure a cohesive visual aesthetic and may assist with set dressing as needed. Additionally, they will collaborate with Production Management to track budgets, deadlines, and logistical needs. Early in the rehearsal process, they will coordinate with the Stage Manager to provide appropriate rehearsal props, ensuring a smooth transition to performance-ready pieces. This role is ideal for a highly organized, resourceful, and creative individual with strong problem-solving skills and a passion for storytelling through objects and design.

Instructions to Apply:

Please email a resume and two relevant references to admin@refractedco.com with the subject line DREAM HOU$E PROPS. If you have a website that’s not included in your resume, please include the link in the body of the email. Please also provide work samples (images from your previous work) if available and any information about potential conflicts with the above listed production schedule.

Refracted Theatre Company is committed to creating an anti-racist, diverse workplace and strongly encourages BIPOC individuals, women, LGBT individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and foreign-born residents to apply. Refracted is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

To apply for this job email your details to admin@refractedco.com

Pay Rate/Range*: 1400