Amadeus: Prop design – A Level Drama and Theatre OCR Revision

Amadeus: Prop Design Basics

Props in “Amadeus” contribute significantly to the visual aesthetics, atmosphere, and the narrative development of the play. They help recreate the elegance of the 18th-century Viennese Court while also reflecting themes and character development.
Effective prop design in “Amadeus” entails the usage of items like sheets of music, candles, treats, violin, religious iconography, period costumes, and furniture, all carefully selected to enhance authenticity and realism.

Salieri’s use of a cross showcases his initial strong faith and subsequent disillusionment. When he burns the cross, it symbolically represents his renunciation of God, highlighting a key turning point in his character development.
The sheets of music not only illustrate the musical context of the play but also become symbolic representations of Mozart’s genius and Salieri’s mediocrity.
Mozart’s lavish period clothing contrasted with his vulgar actions contributes to the portrayal of the childlike genius aspect of his character.

The elaborate furniture and costumes serve to highlight the themes of wealth, power, and status prevalent in the Viennese court.
Salieri’s treats symbolise his use of manipulation and bribery to maintain his status at court.
The iconography used throughout serves to underscore the importance of faith, the church, and God in Salieri’s life while also establishing the broader theme of religious disillusionment.

Shaffer utilises musical instruments as props to heighten dramatic tension and denote musical prowess, a central element of the narrative.
The strategic lighting of candles plays a unique role in gauging the passage of time, in addition to contrasting light and dark, symbolising the duality in characters and themes.
In the end, a culmination of visual and atmospheric props, including the dramatic masquerade costumes, supports the climactic resolution of “Amadeus”.
Props also effortlessly translate between scenes or acts, helping create a seamless narrative flow on stage. For example, the movement of characters around furniture easily manoeuvres audience attention to different parts of the stage.