Adam Savage Examines the Props of Hamilton!

Summary

In this engaging video, the host explores the backstage world of the San Francisco production of 'Hamilton', interviewing prop master Mike Ike Meyer. They discuss the challenges of managing a vast array of props, including the meticulous creation of a fake champagne glass with glitter for bubbles and magnetic trays to prevent spills. The video also highlights the durability of props, with examples like a chair repaired with fiber fix and a foam-filled box that withstands rough handling. The prop master's role extends to maintaining historical accuracy, as seen with the detailed research into the perfect paper for a burning letter. The video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and attention to detail that brings 'Hamilton' to life on stage.

Takeaways

• 🎭 The speaker is at the San Francisco show of Hamilton, expressing their love for theater and its resilience.
• 🔧 The prop master, Mike Ike Meyer, discusses the challenges of managing props for a worldwide show like Hamilton.
• 🍾 A detailed look at the prop-making process, including a fake glass of champagne with glitter to mimic bubbles.
• 🧲 The use of magnets to secure props, such as trays, to prevent them from falling during performances.
• 🕯️ The revelation that the flame effects on stage are all fake, with real fire only used during the 'Burn' scene.
• 📜 The meticulous research into the right type of paper for the Reynolds pamphlet, including a day spent burning various papers.
• 📦 The importance of prop maintenance, with examples of chairs and carts being repaired and repainted regularly.
• 📜 The necessity of having multiple copies of paper props like the Reynolds pamphlet and replacing them monthly.
• 🗳️ The discussion of the unique design of the 'farmer refuted' box, made from lightweight foam with a plywood shell.
• ⚔️ The handling and maintenance of weaponry props, including real-looking but safe dueling pistols and muskets.

Q & A

What is the significance of the location mentioned in the transcript?

The location mentioned is San Francisco, where the speaker is visiting the set of the Hamilton show at the Orpheum Theater, expressing their love for theater and its resilience.

What is the role of Mike Ike Meyer in the Hamilton show?

Mike Ike Meyer is the prop master for the Hamilton show, responsible for managing, repairing, and ensuring the props used in the production.

Why does the speaker mention the apocalypse in relation to theater?

The speaker humorously suggests that theater is the first art form that would survive an apocalypse, highlighting their belief in the enduring nature of live performance.

What is a 'camel cart' in the context of the Hamilton show?

A 'camel cart' is a prop used in the Hamilton show, specifically for the scenes 'Helpless' and 'Satisfied,' and is designed to hold and transport other props like a tray of fake champagne glasses.

How are the fake champagne glasses in the Hamilton show made to appear realistic?

The fake champagne glasses are made with glitter embedded in epoxy and glue to resemble champagne bubbles, and they are magnetic to ensure they don't fall off the tray during performance.

What is unique about the candles used on stage in the Hamilton show?

The candles used on stage are not real; they are electric props that light up to simulate a flame. Real flames are only used during the song 'Burn' when Eliza burns a letter.

Why did the prop team spend a day burning different papers?

The prop team spent a day burning different papers to find the right one that would burn for the appropriate amount of time during the scene where a letter is burned in the song 'Burn'.

How often do the paper props, like the Reynolds pamphlets, need to be replaced?

The Reynolds pamphlets are replaced about once a month or sooner if they become worn, ensuring they maintain their appearance and functionality throughout the show.

What material are the boxes used in the Hamilton show made of, and why?

The boxes used in the show are made of a foam core with a plywood shell. This combination makes them lightweight for the actors to handle while still being sturdy enough for use on stage.

What is the purpose of the magnetic feature on the trays used in the Hamilton show?

The trays used in the show are magnetic to ensure that the props, such as glasses, do not fall off during the performance, providing a secure way to transport them across the stage.

How does the prop team handle the repair and maintenance of props like the chairs used in the show?

Props like chairs are repaired using materials such as fiberglass and CA glue when they break. The team also uses fiber fix to reinforce the repairs and repaints the props to maintain their appearance.