We recently built a selection of hand props for the theatre production of the popular children’s book called “The 52 Storey Tree House”. Mark Thompson designed the costumes, set and props and the show was directed by Liesel Badorrek. Julian Louis was the Artistic Director. Below are photos of some of the props we made along with some construction notes.
Sporting trophies
“Vegetable Castle” sign
The sporting trophies were sourced items found in a box at the back of a junk shop on the Central Coast. They were black but came up well with some judicious polishing and hydrochloric acid! The sign was simply a stick-on vinyl print mounted on some Alucabond. Alucabond is a strong and light substrate that is perfect for this type of application.
Cow letterbox
Giant potato masher
The cow letter box was made of empty paint tins mounted on a sculpted steel branch. The branch framework was painted with texture coating to give it a more natural look. The giant potato masher was one metre in height and made with aluminium and laser-cut polycarbonate. A turned wooden handle secured the aluminium frame together.
Pile of children’s books
“Fun with Vegetables” book
The pile of children’s books were glued to a ply sheet so they could be quickly set/struck from the stage. The book was an old cook book dressed up as per the design.
Secret disguise bags
Communication funnel prop
The printing on the Secret Disguises bag was very difficult. All types of paint refused to stick to the nylon bags. After much trial and error a light spray of 3M contact adhesive on the nylon provided a stable base for the paint. A much better solution would be to avoid this type of bag altogether. The communications funnel was simply several metal shower tubes from Bunnings joined together.
Wooden tray of Ninja Snails
Detail of Ninja Snails
The X12 Ninja snails on a wooden tray were made from expandable urethane foam. Details of their construction are described in another post.