The Playwriting course is designed to introduce students to the craft of writing plays, exploring the fundamental elements of drama, including character development, dialogue, structure, and themes. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises to help students develop their unique voice and storytelling skills for the stage.
Key Topics Covered:
- Introduction to Playwriting
- Understanding the basics of drama
- History and evolution of playwriting
- Character Development
- Creating compelling characters
- Understanding character motivation and arc
- Dialogue
- Crafting authentic and engaging dialogue
- Techniques for subtext and conflict in conversations
- Plot and Structure
- The three-act structure and alternatives
- Building tension and pacing in a play
- Exploring different narrative structures
- Themes and Ideas
- Integrating themes into your work
- Exploring social, political, and personal themes
- Writing Scenes
- Scene construction and purpose
- Balancing action, dialogue, and exposition
- Rewriting and Editing
- The importance of rewriting in playwriting
- Techniques for effective editing and refining your script
- Stagecraft
- Understanding the practicalities of staging a play
- Working with directors, actors, and designers
- Final Project
- Writing a one-act play or a series of scenes
- Workshopping and peer feedback sessions
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, students will:
- Have a solid understanding of the key elements of playwriting.
- Be able to develop and write a complete one-act play or a series of interconnected scenes.
- Understand the collaborative nature of theatre and how to work with other creatives.
- Gain confidence in their ability to express ideas through the medium of drama.
Course Format:
- Lectures: Theoretical aspects of playwriting.
- Workshops: Practical writing sessions with peer and instructor feedback.
- Readings: Study of classical and contemporary plays.
- Assignments: Writing exercises, scene work, and a final script project.
Assessment:
- Participation and Attendance: Active involvement in workshops and discussions.
- Writing Assignments: Regular submission of scenes and exercises.
- Final Project: A completed one-act play or equivalent.
Prerequisites:
No prior experience in playwriting is necessary. An interest in storytelling, theatre, and creative writing is recommended.
Course Duration:
This is typically a semester-long course, with weekly sessions.
Target Audience:
Aspiring playwrights, theatre enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the art of dramatic writing.
This course provides the foundational tools and knowledge needed to begin a career in playwriting or to enhance existing writing skills for the stage.