Proposing A Budget

 
 
The following list is just an idea-starter. Every production is different, and thus every budget is different. If a show expense seems like something worth reminding people about in the future, PLEASE add it to this document!

Areas Not To Forget When Budgeting:

  • Set
    • Construction Materials: Lumber, Muslin, Steel
    • Hardware: Nails, Screws, Clamps, Pulleys, Angle Irons, etc.
    • Furniture and other props (especially from second-hand stores, etc)
    • Special Tools: Are there tools needed for this show not already owned by Scotch'n'Soda Theatre?
    • Drafting Costs: If drafting supplies / duplication costs are necessary, add them here
    • Paint: Include both paint and painting supplies. Order stock colors like white and black in 5 gallon increments when possible.
  • Lighting
    • Equipment Rental: This may include lights, generators, control boards, rigging hardware, cable, etc. If FMS work is needed, include here.
    • Gel, Gobos, Gobo Frames (do you have enough of what is necessary? Don't forget to check S'n'S stock!)
  • Sound
    • Equipment Rental: Amplifiers, Speakers, Control Boards, Microphones, Cable
    • Pre-recorded CD's & Tapes: Are there effects or music CD's that will need to be purchased?
    • Blank Tapes/CD-R's for mixing and mastering
    • Batteries for Wireless Equipment
  • Costumes
    • Rental of Special Costume Pieces
    • Store-bought costume items (Goodwill, etc.)
    • Materials for Constructing/Altering Costumes: Fabric, Notions, Patterns
  • Makeup & Hair
    • Base Makeup and Supplies (including sponges, cold cream, etc.)
    • Special Effects Makeup
    • Wigs, Hair Dye, Hair Spray, etc.
  • Properties
    • Rented Items
    • Store-Bought Items (including furniture, clocks, paintings, etc.)
    • Constructed Items
    • Consumable props (food, breakables) for duration of technical/dress rehearsals and show
  • Publicity
    • Posters (and "teasers" if necessary)
    • Ads
    • Programs
    • Table Tents
    • Tickets (if necessary)
    • Supplies: Chalk, Staples, Markers, Paints, Paper for Banners
    • See Publicity How-To Documents for more information
  • Rights & Royalties
    • Check on this BEFORE the budget proposal (in fact checking on this before a show is proposed is best)! Fax/mail the appropriate agent for a price quote. (Some agents will reluctantly give a ballpark estimate by telephone.)
  • Miscellaneous
    • Stage Management Costs - Supplies to maintain the Stage Management Box
    • Xeroxing - Scripts, Music, Meeting Agendas, Financial Documentation
    • Batteries for Headsets

 

Scotch'n'Soda Theatre How-To Collection This document originally written by Darren Mauro (CS '98) Contributors: Jeremy Lewit (HS '98)