Hi,

I've been asked to teach a 2 hour class for teens interested in technical theater.  I can essentially do whatever I want in teaching them more about props and what a prop master does.  I know I will give a tour of the props storage areas and I think it would be fun to do something hands on/make or build something.  I could probably come up with a list of what to do or not do based on things I've learned over the years.  But I don't want to bore them either.

The date for this class is October so I was thinking they might enjoy making fake blood (it will be near Halloween, and you have the gore factor).  Plus, they would have to consider- is the blood consumed?  will it get on costumes? etc. and kind of show the thought process that must go into finding/making the props.

I am open to other ideas too.  Anyone have suggestions on what I should teach? 

For Halloween I once made fake tombstones out of using 2" thick polystyrene insulation available at your home improvement center.

Using a serrated knife or hot wire, cut the styrofoam into the shape of your tombstone.  Cut another rectangle to form the base of the tombstone and glue these together.

Using a soldering iron or wood-burning tool, you can "carve" letters, epitaphs and designs into the stone with great accuracy.  (Be sure the area you're working in is well-ventilated).

Using a faux-finishing technique, paint the stones to resemble granite or marble.

How about constructing prop food?  White styro the thickness of bread.  Use thick cloth (corduroy) for meat and don't forget green felt for lettuce.  Cut to size and glue together.  Paint the crust on the edge, cut in half and pile high on a tray for your on-stage party.  For performances, add a few real sandwich halves and you have the beginning of a real good party.