Behind the Puppet Stage: A Helper at Work
Putting on a puppet show takes a lot of teamwork. Leo is a second grader who works backstage as a props helper for Room 4's puppet play. Today, our class reporter sits down with Leo to learn how he keeps the show running smoothly.
Reporter: What does a props helper do?
Leo: A prop is any object the puppets use in a story, like a tiny basket, a cardboard tree, or a felt wand. My job is to take care of these items. I make sure every object is in the right spot before the curtain opens.
Reporter: How do you get ready before the show begins?
Leo: I use a props table behind the stage. I divide the table into boxes using blue tape. Then, I sort the objects. Props for Scene One go on the left side. Props for Scene Two go on the right side. Sorting keeps everything organized so nothing gets lost in the dark.
Reporter: What is your job while the puppeteers are acting?
- backstage:
- The area behind the stage where performers and helpers get ready out of sight.
- props:
- Objects that actors or puppets hold and use during a show.
- organized:
- Arranged neatly in order so things are easy to find.
- puppeteer:
- A person who moves and speaks for a puppet.
- unexpected:
- Happening by surprise without being planned.
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About this interview / q&a passage for 2nd Grade
“Behind the Puppet Stage: A Helper at Work” is a interview / q&a reading passage about theater prop helpers, written for 2nd Grade. It takes about 2 minutes to read (309 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.