Theatre Prop
A year ago (November 2023) I got the amazing opportunity to build a Prop for the Grande Prairie Live Theatre.
They needed a Shell phone, yes you read that right, a SHELL PHONE much like the one back in the 1990’s.
Only these things are quite difficult to find in the 2020’s.
So we took these images and tried our best to make a replica, only more realistic colours.
- I haven’t seen many silver clams like these in the ocean.
We started with 3D printing a few different sizes of a shell, this would have to be held by actors hands of varying sizes.
After a back and forth with colours, design, durability testing and trial and error…
We built this!
The funniest part was how I had to stop it from wobbling around on the counter during the Play.
So I made barnacle ‘feet’ for stability.
Though not the cutest thing close up, at a distance it looked like a realistic Clamshell.
It was durable, lightweight and able to withstand “clamming shut” during the performances for two weeks.
We had an actor hesitant to slam it down during the rehearsal, I told her to throw it LOL. It took a fair beating after that.
In the end I learned two things in particular.
1) You can rent out Props
I can now rent it at a fair price for more than one Play.
This helps to have readily available props on hand.
I am able to redistribute this Prop at anytime.
Which means a rental program will be discussed in the near future for TABARD Designs.
2) A slight redesign is needed
I was able to see what the result two weeks of abuse could do to a prop.
It gives me a chance to test out other top coats that would withstand the lighting and other elements on stage.
It needs some TLC before it can be used again,
Which means I can take more time to clean up the edges.
I have a plan to make a second one.
so I have one that looks like a real shell, and one that looks like a realistic phone shaped shell.
(Possibly other shapes too).
In the end; it was a lot of fun to be able to collaborate with The Grande Prairie Live Theatre
We also enjoyed the night out to watch ‘Sandy Toes, Salty Kisses’ as well.
I would recommend taking an evening for some live entertainment and support the Grande Prairie Live Theatre.
The staff and volunteers work tirelessly every night to bring you a exciting production.
** Grande Prairie Live Theatre is one of Canada's largest non-profit community theatre companies.
and has entertained the Peace Region since 1932. **
https://gplt.ca/about/history/