Introduction

In the intricate world of theater production, there are many jargons that can be confusing for beginners. One such term is “striking the set”. To understand the process and its significance, it's essential to delve into the nuances of theater production, set construction, and the reasons behind disassembly and reassembly. This article aims to elucidate the concept of “striking the set” and its practical applications in the theater and film industry.

What Does 'Striking the Set' Mean?

The term “striking the set” refers to the dismantling of a theater or film production's constructed scenery. This process is a crucial phase in the theatrical cycle, ensuring that the stage is ready for the next performance or for setting up a different production. Essentially, it involves taking down the props, set pieces, lighting, and other equipment used in a production to either discard or protect them for later use.

Types of 'Striking the Set'

There are two primary contexts in which “striking the set” is used:

Touring Set: If the set is designed to travel to different venues, it must be disassembled to facilitate easier transportation. This disassembly ensures that the set can be reconstructed at the new location with minimal hassle. Final Production: At the end of a production's run, the entire set is typically struck to clear the stage for the next show. This can be a part of the normal running procedure or a final step in the production cycle.

For touring sets, the process involves breaking down the set pieces and packaging them for transport. For final production sets, each prop, set piece, lighting, and sound equipment is carefully removed, cleaned, and returned to its storage place.

The Practical Aspects of 'Striking the Set'

The TDF Theatre Dictionary provides a comprehensive definition: “to strike” something from the stage means to remove it. This includes everything from individual props to costume elements such as a jacket that restricts an actress’s movements. During rehearsals and previews, the production team makes numerous adjustments, and elements that do not work as expected are often struck.

A typical procedure for “striking” during the run of a show is to remove certain elements during intermission, as required by the script. This may include a scenic element that is absent for a specific scene in Act II. By removing these elements, the set can be cleared to fully focus on the next scene without unnecessary clutter.

Once the production concludes, the entire set is struck to make room for the theater’s next show. This involves removing all the props, set pieces, lighting, and sound equipment, and returning them to their respective storage areas. This process ensures that the stage is clear and ready for the next performance.

Challenges and Considerations in 'Striking the Set'

One of the significant challenges in striking the set is ensuring that all items are properly documented and accounted for. This includes keeping track of reusable materials and any custom-made pieces that can be repurposed in future productions. The process also requires coordination among the props crew, scenic crew, and electrical and sound crews to ensure that all equipment is safely removed and packed.

Another consideration is the maintenance and preservation of the set materials. Many set pieces are made from reusable materials, and the process of striking the set provides an opportunity to clean and restore them. This helps to extend the life of the materials and reduce waste.

Conclusion

Striking the set is a pivotal yet often underappreciated step in theater and film production. It is a multifaceted process that involves careful planning, execution, and documentation. Whether for a touring set or the final production, the act of striking the set ensures that the next show can commence with a clean and organized stage. Understanding the significance and practicalities of this process can greatly enhance one's appreciation of the technical aspects involved in putting on a successful theater production.