Caligula: Prop design

Props for Caligula should be carefully chosen to reflect the period and location – ancient Rome during the reign of Caligula.
The props must not only be period-appropriate but also need to be chosen to reflect the contrast between grandeur and decline, as the reign of Caligula was a time of both opulence and decay.

The functionality of the props contributes to the overall realism of the play. For example, the use of real drinking goblets and wine jugs that characters can interact with adds authenticity.
Props like Incitatus’s harness and the imperial crown can be used to highlight the absurdity of the situation and denote power respectively.

Some props serve symbolic purposes, such as the continuous garland Caligula wears, emblematic of his immortality obsession and his deluded self-perception as a divinity.
Incitatus’s golden stable, though not a prop that appears physically in majority of productions, is often talked about. It symbolises the extravagance and inherent absurdity of Caligula’s rule.

The placement and movement of props are essential to the staging of the play. A well-organised prop strategy can enhance the performance.
Each prop should be accessible to the actors when needed. A prop table or a list can be useful in managing all the prop elements during the performance.

Props can serve a crucial role in building a character’s personality. For instance, the selection of unique, luxurious items for Caligula like a jewelled dagger can denote his extreme indulgence and his disregard for morality.
The reluctance or eagerness of a character in handling a prop can reveal their temperament and feelings. This may be particularly relevant for the characters surrounding Caligula, who may handle props such as goblets or scrolls with visible tension or dread, reflecting their fear of the Emperor.