A minimal amount of on-stage focus is being tried by many casts. It is a way of creating intimacy and is probably best when used like spices, quite sparingly. On occasion, we allow the performers to touch each other for a very brief period of time. It can be very powerful. The rules allow props, but the same advice about using sparingly is good advice.
Ensemble dress is traditional.
The casts of the first readers theaters wore all black. Many still do. Other teams like a bit more than that. Vests are popular. Most students buy their own outfits.