Being a Playwright: A Career Guide for Writers

Are you a writer with a passion for the stage? Do you love crafting stories that come to life through the art of theater? If so, then a career as a playwright might be the perfect fit for you. In this comprehensive career guide, we will explore the exciting world of being a playwright, providing valuable insights and tips to help you navigate this creative endeavor.

What Does a Playwright Do?

A playwright is a writer who specializes in creating scripts and dialogue for theatrical performances. Their work involves developing original stories, characters, and plotlines that captivate audiences and engage actors. Playwrights breathe life into their ideas by crafting compelling narratives that explore various themes and provoke emotions. They work closely with directors, actors, and other theater professionals to bring their vision to fruition.

Skills and Qualifications

Being a successful playwright requires a unique combination of skills and qualifications:

Being A Playwright: A Career Guide for Writers

by Steve Johnson(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1142 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	224 pages

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• Strong Writing Skills: Playwrights must have exceptional writing skills and a deep understanding of dramatic structure, character development, and dialogue.
• Creativity: Playwrights need to be creative and imaginative, able to come up with unique and compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
• Collaboration: Being a playwright involves collaborating with directors, actors, and other theater professionals. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.
• Research and Observation: Playwrights often draw inspiration from real-life events and experiences. Being observant and conducting thorough research is crucial to create authentic and believable stories.
• Adaptability: Playwrights must be adaptable, open to feedback, and willing to make revisions to their work to enhance its impact on stage.

Education and Training

While there isn't a specific educational path to becoming a playwright, pursuing a degree in theater, dramatic writing, or literature can provide valuable knowledge and training. Many playwrights also benefit from participating in workshops, masterclasses, and joining theater groups to gain practical experience.

Additionally, familiarizing oneself with the works of renowned playwrights and studying various dramatic techniques can provide invaluable insights into the craft. Building a deep appreciation and understanding of theater history and the diverse styles of playwriting will help aspiring playwrights develop their unique voice and style.

Building a Portfolio

Creating a strong portfolio is crucial for aspiring playwrights. This collection of their best plays serves as a showcase of their unique perspective, talent, and versatility. Playwrights can start by submitting their work to theater festivals, contests, and smaller theaters to establish a presence in the industry.

Collaborating with local theater groups or schools to have their plays staged can provide invaluable feedback and exposure. Building a network of connections within the theater community is essential for aspiring playwrights to obtain opportunities and have their work read and produced.

Freelance vs. Employment

Playwrights have the flexibility to choose between freelance work and employment within theater companies. Freelancing allows playwrights to have creative control over their projects and explore different genres and themes. It also provides the opportunity to work with multiple theaters and expand their professional network.

On the other hand, being employed by a theater company offers stability and a consistent income. Playwrights may work as resident or commissioned playwrights, collaborating with a particular theater company to write plays that align with their artistic vision and audience interests.

Promoting and Marketing

In today's digital age, playwrights need to actively promote and market their work. Building a professional website or portfolio to showcase their plays and achievements is essential. Social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn can be powerful tools for networking, engaging with the theater community, and attracting the attention of producers and directors.

Attending industry events, workshops, and conferences provides playwrights with opportunities to meet professionals in the theater world and gain exposure for their work. Collaborating with other artists, such as actors, directors, and designers, can also help in marketing their plays and expanding their audience reach.

Income Potential

The income potential for playwrights can vary greatly depending on their experience, reputation, and the success of their plays. Established playwrights often earn royalties from ticket sales, licensing fees, and script publications. They may also secure commissions from theater companies and receive grants or fellowships.

However, it's important to note that playwriting can be a challenging and competitive field. Many playwrights supplement their income by taking on other writing jobs, teaching theater classes, or working in related fields within the entertainment industry.

Becoming a playwright is an exhilarating journey that requires a combination of talent, perseverance, and dedication. By honing their writing skills, collaborating with theater professionals, and actively promoting their work, aspiring playwrights can navigate this rewarding career path. So, if you have a passion for storytelling, a love for the stage, and a desire to captivate audiences through the power of theater, go ahead and embrace the exciting world of being a playwright!

Being A Playwright: A Career Guide for Writers

by Steve Johnson(Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1142 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages

FREE

The essential guide to a career in playwriting, from the team behind the multi-award-winning Papatango, one of the UK’s leading new-writing companies.

Writing a good play is only the first step towards becoming a successful playwright; it is just as crucial to understand all the practical and business elements of building your career. Being a Playwright transparently and honestly sets out everything you need to know, including clear and constructive advice on:

Starting out, including training options and gaining practical experience
Finding a playwriting model that works for you
Getting your script noticed and connecting with industry decision-makers
Developing a production-ready draft through redrafting and R&D
Pursuing programming, commissioning and funding opportunities
Approaching and working with agents and publishers
Securing the best possible deal with producers
Working with collaborators throughout the rehearsal process and previews
Capitalising on a production, assessing its success and planning new projects

Drawing on Papatango’s superlative track record of discovering and launching new writers – including BAFTA, OffWestEnd, Royal National Theatre Foundation and Alfred Fagon Award winners, many of whom have premiered worldwide as well as in the West End – and featuring tips from a host of industry insiders, this encouraging and accessible guide explores the opportunities and pitfalls of life as a playwright.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer wondering how to break into the industry or a working playwright looking to move up to the next level, this is your road map for navigating the world of professional theatre.

'This enlightening book, full of pragmatic information, is an excellent tool for playwrights navigating today’s industry.' Indhu Rubasingham, Artistic Director of Kiln Theatre, London

'Chris Foxon and George Turvey – aka Papatango – are a phenomenon for playwriting good. Being a Playwright is packed with inside information that will kick-start your writing life. Written with insight and chock-full of useful advice, this will be a bible for playwrights.' Steve Waters, playwright and Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia