Putting on a successful theatre production takes considerably more than talented performers and a good script.
Behind the scenes, there are costumes to organise, props to prepare, scenery to transport and equipment to keep track of.
For independent theatre companies, amateur dramatic societies, dance organisations and touring productions, managing these physical belongings can become a significant challenge.
A production might run for just a few evenings, but the equipment used to bring it to life can occupy valuable space for months afterwards.
Costume rails fill rehearsal rooms. Stage props are stacked in cupboards. Decorative scenery takes over garages, and reusable equipment is scattered between different venues.
As a theatre company grows, the question becomes increasingly important:
Where should everything go between performances?
Flexible self storage can provide additional space for suitable props, costumes, stage accessories and production supplies without immediately requiring a permanent warehouse or larger rehearsal premises.
SecureStore offers flexible business storage across Bury, Manchester, Failsworth, Salford and the wider Greater Manchester area.
Why Theatre Companies Need Additional Storage
Theatre productions involve a wide variety of physical items.
Depending on the performance, these may include:
- Stage props
- Costume accessories
- Suitable costumes
- Lightweight scenery
- Decorative backdrops
- Reusable display materials
- Rehearsal accessories
- Production signage
- Packaging and transport containers
Many of these items are used for a relatively short period but remain valuable for future productions.
Throwing everything away after each show can be expensive and wasteful.
However, retaining every item without a proper system can quickly create clutter.
The Challenge of Short Production Runs
Some theatre companies perform the same production for several months.
Others may stage a show for only a weekend.
An amateur dramatic society might produce three or four performances throughout the year.
That means equipment is regularly moving through different stages.
Preparation → Rehearsals → Performance → Dismantling → Storage → Reuse
Without an organised process, props and costumes can easily become damaged, misplaced or forgotten.
Separate Reusable Equipment From Production-Specific Items
Not every object needs to be retained.
Some props may be useful for future shows.
Others are created for one particular production and have little value afterwards.
Before placing anything into storage, consider:
Will this item be used again?
Is it in suitable condition?
Would replacing it be expensive?
Does it have sentimental or historical value?
Is it safe and appropriate to store?
A regular review can help prevent unnecessary storage costs.
Create a Proper Production Inventory
An accurate inventory is one of the most useful tools for managing theatrical equipment.
Record what the company owns, where it is kept and which production it belongs to.
For example:
| Reference | Item | Production | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PROP-001 | Decorative suitcase | Production A | Available |
| COST-002 | Period jacket | Production B | In storage |
| SET-003 | Lightweight backdrop | Production C | Inspection required |
| ACC-004 | Costume accessories | General stock | Available |
You may also wish to record:
- Quantity
- Dimensions
- Condition
- Ownership
- Replacement value
- Storage location
- Maintenance requirements
This makes planning future productions much easier.
Give Every Item a Reference
A simple numbering system can prevent confusion.
For example:
PROP-001
COST-001
SET-001
Use suitable removable labels or tags.
Avoid attaching adhesives directly to delicate fabrics, painted surfaces or valuable objects.
Keep each reference linked to your inventory.
Organise Storage by Category
Rather than mixing everything together, create clearly identified sections.
For example:
COSTUMES
HAND PROPS
SCENERY
REHEARSAL EQUIPMENT
PRODUCTION SIGNAGE
PACKAGING
This can reduce the time spent searching for equipment before rehearsals and performances.
Managing Theatre Costumes
Costumes can be one of the most valuable reusable resources a theatre company owns.
Depending on the production, these might include:
- Dresses
- Jackets
- Trousers
- Shirts
- Hats
- Shoes
- Costume accessories
A well-maintained costume collection can support several productions over many years.
But costumes require careful preparation before storage.
Clean Costumes Before Putting Them Away
Costumes may have been worn repeatedly under hot stage lighting.
Before storing suitable garments:
- Follow the garment’s care instructions.
- Arrange appropriate cleaning.
- Check for damage.
- Allow garments to dry completely.
- Identify any repairs required.
- Pack or hang them appropriately.
Don’t store damp or heavily soiled costumes.
Separate Costumes by Production or Period
Depending on your theatre company’s needs, costumes could be organised by:
- Production
- Historical period
- Garment type
- Size
- Character
- Colour
For example:
VICTORIAN COSTUMES
MODERN COSTUMES
CHILDREN’S COSTUMES
HATS AND ACCESSORIES
Choose a system that makes future retrieval straightforward.
Use Costume Records
For each significant garment, record:
- Costume reference
- Description
- Approximate size
- Condition
- Associated accessories
- Relevant production history
Photographs can be particularly useful.
A costume designer preparing a new production may be able to review the inventory before deciding whether new garments are required.
Protect Delicate Fabrics
Some costumes may contain delicate materials, decorative trims or specialist construction.
Ordinary self storage may not be suitable for historic, valuable or environmentally sensitive garments.
Follow appropriate textile-care guidance.
For particularly delicate pieces, seek professional conservation advice.
Keep Accessories Together
A costume may consist of several components.
For example:
COSTUME 014 – PERIOD OUTFIT
- Jacket
- Waistcoat
- Trousers
- Hat
- Accessories
If one component goes missing, the costume may become unusable.
Keep suitable accessories clearly associated with the main garment.
Stage Props Need Their Own System
Props are essential to many performances.
They may include:
- Suitcases
- Books
- Decorative objects
- Artificial flowers
- Picture frames
- Lightweight furniture
- Handheld accessories
Theatre companies often accumulate large collections of props over time.
Without proper organisation, it can become difficult to remember what is available.
Create a Prop Catalogue
Photograph each reusable prop.
Record:
- Description
- Dimensions
- Condition
- Reference number
- Storage location
This allows production teams to check existing stock before buying or creating something new.
Don’t Store Unsafe Props
Certain theatrical props may involve hazardous or restricted materials.
These can include:
- Pyrotechnics
- Flammable liquids
- Fuels
- Gas cylinders
- Hazardous chemicals
- Certain special-effects materials
Such items must not be placed in ordinary self-storage units.
Always check SecureStore’s storage rules.
Specialist theatrical equipment may require dedicated facilities and professional handling.
Reusing Props Can Reduce Production Costs
Building or purchasing new props for every show can be expensive.
A well-organised collection allows theatre companies to identify suitable items already available.
For example, a decorative suitcase might be used in several productions.
A lightweight table could be adapted for different scenes, provided it remains safe and suitable.
This can reduce unnecessary expenditure.
Managing Stage Scenery
Scenery can create some of the biggest storage challenges.
Depending on the production, it may include:
- Lightweight panels
- Backdrops
- Decorative flats
- Portable scenic elements
- Suitable display structures
Some pieces may be too large, fragile or heavy for ordinary self storage.
Before moving scenery, assess dimensions, materials, structural stability and handling requirements.
Don’t Assume Every Set Piece Can Be Stored
Large scenery may require specialist storage.
Some structures are designed for temporary installation and may not be suitable for repeated transport or stacking.
Seek appropriate professional advice before dismantling or moving complex scenic elements.
Label Scenery Clearly
For suitable reusable pieces, use a consistent identification system.
For example:
SET-A01 – BACKDROP
SET-A02 – LIGHTWEIGHT PANEL
SET-A03 – DECORATIVE ARCH
Record the dimensions and handling requirements.
This can help production teams plan future use.
Protect Painted Surfaces
Scenic pieces may have delicate painted finishes.
Before storage:
- Ensure finishes are appropriately dry.
- Use suitable protective materials.
- Avoid unnecessary contact between surfaces.
- Follow construction and handling guidance.
- Prevent unstable stacking.
Specialist materials may require particular storage conditions.
Theatre Productions Often Use Multiple Venues
Touring theatre companies may perform in different locations.
A production could visit venues across:
- Bury
- Manchester
- Salford
- Oldham
- Rochdale
This creates additional logistical challenges.
Equipment must be prepared, transported, checked and returned.
A central inventory can help the team understand what should be travelling with the production.
Create a Touring Checklist
Before leaving for a performance, prepare a list.
For example:
TOURING PRODUCTION – EQUIPMENT
- Costume containers
- Hand prop boxes
- Suitable scenery components
- Rehearsal accessories
- Production signage
- Appropriate transport materials
Check the equipment before departure.
Repeat the process after the performance.
Don’t Rely on Memory
During a busy production, it is easy for smaller items to be overlooked.
A prop may be left backstage.
A costume accessory could remain in a dressing room.
A transport container might be misplaced.
Written checklists help reduce these risks.
Record Equipment Returns
After each performance, record:
- Items returned
- Missing items
- Damaged equipment
- Cleaning requirements
- Repairs required
This helps prepare the company for its next production.
Separate Damaged Equipment
Don’t return damaged items directly to general stock.
Create categories such as:
READY FOR USE
CLEANING REQUIRED
REPAIR REQUIRED
REMOVE FROM INVENTORY
This helps prevent unsafe or unusable equipment being selected for a future performance.
Rehearsal Rooms Should Be Used for Rehearsals
Some theatre groups use community halls, studios or rented rehearsal spaces.
These premises may have limited storage.
Props and costumes can gradually occupy corners of the room.
Moving suitable occasional-use belongings into storage can help keep rehearsal areas clear.
However, a self-storage unit should not automatically be used as a rehearsal studio or workshop.
Use it only for activities permitted under the storage agreement.
Preparing for a New Production
When planning a new show, review the existing inventory before purchasing materials.
Ask:
Do we already own suitable props?
Can costumes be reused?
Is existing scenery appropriate?
What needs repairing?
What must be purchased?
This can make production budgeting more accurate.
Create Production-Specific Equipment Lists
For each show, prepare a dedicated list.
For example:
PRODUCTION A
- 12 costumes
- 8 hand props
- 3 suitable scenic elements
- 2 transport containers
Keep the list linked to your main inventory.
This helps avoid assigning the same equipment to two productions happening simultaneously.
Managing Several Productions at Once
Some performing arts organisations run multiple shows or workshops.
Equipment may be required for different productions during the same period.
Use booking or allocation records.
For example:
PROP-014 – ALLOCATED TO PRODUCTION A
COST-027 – AVAILABLE
SET-009 – RESERVED FOR PRODUCTION B
This can reduce scheduling conflicts.
Community Theatre and Volunteer Organisations
Many theatre groups depend on volunteers.
Equipment may be handled by different people from one production to the next.
A clear storage system makes it easier for new volunteers to understand where things belong.
Consider creating simple written procedures for:
- Collecting equipment
- Returning props
- Reporting damage
- Updating inventories
- Accessing storage
Good organisation reduces reliance on one person knowing where everything is.
Arts Organisations and Funding
Community theatre companies may seek support for productions, equipment or organisational development.
Arts Council England provides information about arts funding and support.
Accurate equipment inventories and sensible resource management may also help organisations understand their operating costs.
Keep Health and Safety in Mind
Theatre equipment may be heavy, awkward or fragile.
Moving scenery and handling large props can create risks.
Assess the work involved and use appropriate handling procedures.
The Health and Safety Executive provides general workplace safety guidance.
For specialist stage equipment, use suitably qualified professionals.
Don’t Store Electrical Stage Equipment Without Checking
Some theatre groups own lighting or sound equipment.
Such items may require particular security, environmental conditions, handling and insurance.
Battery-powered equipment can also present additional risks.
Do not assume all electrical equipment is suitable for ordinary self storage.
Speak to SecureStore before bringing in specialist technology or batteries.
Keep Storage Units Organised
For suitable permitted equipment, divide the unit into clear sections.
Near the front
Frequently used props and accessories.
Middle
Costume containers and production materials.
Further back
Suitable scenery and equipment used less often.
Maintain safe access routes where space allows.
Avoid unstable stacking.
Review Your Inventory After Every Production
When a show closes, don’t simply place everything into storage and forget about it.
Review each item.
Ask:
- Is it still in good condition?
- Will it be used again?
- Does it need cleaning?
- Is repair worthwhile?
- Could it be donated or sold?
- Is it suitable for continued storage?
This can prevent unnecessary accumulation.
Sell or Donate Surplus Equipment
Some theatre equipment may no longer be required.
Suitable items could potentially be sold or donated to other performing arts groups.
Before transferring anything, confirm ownership and ensure that equipment is safe and appropriate for its intended use.
Calculate the Cost of Keeping Equipment
Storage can help preserve reusable items, but keeping everything indefinitely may not be economical.
Consider:
- Storage costs
- Transport
- Maintenance
- Repairs
- Insurance
- Frequency of use
A large scenic element that hasn’t been used for years may not justify its ongoing storage cost.
Review these decisions regularly.
Could Storage Help Avoid Larger Premises?
Renting a permanent warehouse or larger rehearsal space can involve significant expense.
For smaller theatre organisations, flexible self storage may provide additional capacity for suitable props and costumes without requiring a major property commitment.
However, specialist scenery, valuable costumes or technical equipment may need dedicated facilities.
Removal + Storage
Moving scenery, props and production equipment can be physically demanding.
SecureStore also provides Removal + Storage solutions.
Speak to our team about suitable belongings and whether we can assist.
Specialist equipment may require dedicated transport and handling.
Storage Insurance
Costumes, props and stage equipment can represent a substantial investment.
Suitable items placed into storage require appropriate insurance.
SecureStore can provide storage insurance at a competitive price.
Check the declared value, ownership and policy terms.
Theatre companies may also need separate cover for equipment in transit or during performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can theatre companies use self storage?
Yes. Self storage may be suitable for certain costumes, props, lightweight scenery, packaging and other permitted production belongings.
Can costumes be stored long-term?
Some suitable costumes may be stored, provided they are properly cleaned, dried and packed. Delicate or historically significant garments may require specialist environmental conditions.
Can large stage scenery be stored?
That depends on its dimensions, materials, weight and handling requirements. Some scenery may require specialist storage. Contact SecureStore before bringing in large pieces.
Can we use a storage unit for rehearsals?
Ordinary self storage is intended for permitted storage activities and should not automatically be used as a rehearsal studio or workshop.
Is insurance available?
Yes. SecureStore can provide storage insurance at a competitive price for suitable belongings, subject to policy terms.
How to Organise Self Storage for a Theatre Company
- Audit existing props, costumes and scenery.
- Separate reusable items from unwanted equipment.
- Assign inventory references.
- Photograph significant items.
- Clean and prepare suitable costumes.
- Identify fragile or specialist belongings.
- Organise equipment by category.
- Create production-specific checklists.
- Record equipment leaving and returning.
- Separate damaged items.
- Maintain safe access routes.
- Review inventory after every production.
- Confirm every item is permitted for storage.
- Arrange appropriate insurance.
Give Your Theatre Company Room to Perform
A successful theatre production depends on preparation, creativity and teamwork.
But behind every performance is a substantial amount of equipment that needs careful organisation.
Costumes must be maintained.
Props need tracking.
Scenery requires appropriate handling.
Touring equipment must be checked.
And reusable items need somewhere suitable to remain between productions.
Without a clear system, rehearsal spaces and backstage areas can quickly become overcrowded.
Suitable self storage can provide additional room for permitted production belongings while helping theatre companies make better use of their existing premises.
Keep accurate inventories.
Protect valuable equipment.
Review what you genuinely need.
And make sure your storage arrangements support the next performance rather than creating another challenge.
SecureStore provides flexible business self storage across Bury, Manchester, Failsworth, Salford and the wider Greater Manchester area.
How to Book Your Unit
If your theatre company, performing arts organisation or community drama group needs additional space for suitable props, costumes or production equipment, contact SecureStore to discuss your requirements.
Telephone: 0161 470 0288
Email: info@securestoreselfstorage.co.uk
Visit: 574 Manchester Road, Bury, BL9 9SW
SecureStore provides flexible personal and business self storage, Removal + Storage, storage insurance and professional mailbox services across Greater Manchester.
