The Warehouse Project – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General
What is The Warehouse Project?
The Warehouse Project is a community-driven resource where schools, theaters, and artists can rent, donate, or collaborate on sets, props, costumes, puppets, and more. We also offer training in stagecraft, reuse materials, and support the performing arts across the Bay Area.
Who is it for?
Everyone in the arts world who needs a little help making their vision happen—community theaters, school drama departments, teachers, freelance designers, teaching artists, and volunteers. If you build shows on a budget, this is for you.
Are you a nonprofit or a business?
We’re setting up as a nonprofit with a business branch. That means donations go toward programs, education, and access—but we also rent props and sets to cover costs and grow.
Where are you located?
We’re based in San Jose, California. We serve the entire Bay Area and are working on delivery options for surrounding areas.
FOR SCHOOLS & THEATERS
What can we rent from you?
We offer props, costumes, puppets, set pieces, and tech gear (limited to what’s donated). If we don’t have it, we’ll try to help you find it, or build it.
How much does it cost to rent?
Rental prices depend on the item and length of time, but we work with your budget. We also offer free or in-kind rentals for Title 1 schools, after-school programs, and small community theaters.
How do we rent something?
Easy:
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Fill out the rental request form (online or by email).
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We’ll send a quote and availability.
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Sign the rental agreement and arrange pickup or delivery.
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Return items cleaned and in the condition you got them.
What happens if something breaks during the show?
We understand theater life. Our contracts include a damage policy and options for light repair fees. We also offer damage insurance add-ons if you’re nervous.
Do you do delivery or pickup?
We’re working on it! For now, we can coordinate local delivery for a small fee or help match you with someone who can assist.
What happens if something breaks during the show?
We understand theater life. Our contracts include a damage policy and options for light repair fees. We also offer damage insurance add-ons if you’re nervous.
FOR DONORS
What can I donate?
We accept high-demand, clean, and reusable items like:
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Props (modern and period)
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Costumes (labeled, cleaned, good condition)
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Puppets or puppet materials
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Set pieces (modular or transportable)
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Sewing machines, craft tools, storage containers, etc.
Can I donate old sets or large items?
Maybe. Because of space, we review big items before accepting them. Send us a photo and we’ll let you know.
Is my donation tax deductible?
We are currently applying for nonprofit status (501(c)(3)). Once confirmed, donations will be tax deductible and we’ll issue receipts retroactively.
What happens to my donation?
Your donated items go into the rental pool, get used in productions, or become teaching materials in our programs. We track major donations and often highlight where they end up. Also, when you donate, you earn "credits" to rent for your next show.
Will you come pick it up?
If it’s a large donation or if you’re local, yes—we offer pickup days or appointments.
What if my donation doesn’t get used?
If something can’t be rented or used, we’ll recycle it or pass it on to another arts organization or maker space.
FOR ARTISTS, VOLUNTEERS & PARTNERS
How can I get involved?
We’re always looking for:
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- Volunteers (sorting, labeling, repairs)
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- Teaching artists (stagecraft, sewing, design)
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- Donors or sponsors
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- Students and interns
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Partner theaters or schools
Do you offer classes or training?
Yes! We’ll soon offer workshops in:
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- Prop building
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- Costuming & sewing
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- Puppet making
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- Stagecraft for kids and adults
(Join our mailing list to find out when.)
Can I partner with you on a project or event?
We’d love that. Whether it’s a co-production, donation drive, student project, or something we haven’t thought of. Let’s talk.
Are you hiring?
As we grow, yes. Right now we offer small stipends and project-based work. Eventually we’ll be hiring staff, especially artists and tech crew with teaching skills.
FOR EVERYONE ASKING…
Why is this important?
Because community theater matters. And not everyone has the budget, the storage, or the time to start from scratch every time. By sharing resources and knowledge, we make the arts more sustainable, more accessible, and more fun.
How do I contact you?
Send us an email at: info@thewarehouseproject.org
Or follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
You can also use the contact form on our website.