Autumn
What is the best way to start playwrighting professionally?
I plan to minor in theater and have been in drama for all of my four years of high school as an elective. I was an actor but lately I have become the Director and Playwright for my little class. Knowing my audience I have mostly written types of 10-minute brusque, low comedy, but have recently written a play that could fit into the tragicomedy genre. I would like to know how I can start out writing professionally besides taking creative writing classes and taking theater? How can I start getting them published or edited? How else can I prepare for a hopeful writing career?
#writing #playwriting #theatre
2 answers
Casey Chartier-Vignapiano
Casey’s Answer
Autumn:
Since you already possess the makings of a portfolio, now is the time to sit down with your work and *really* fine tune/edit them. It is key to exercise this muscle, as writers/playwrights will constantly rework and revise once commissioned for work. Get into this habit now.
Once you have pieces that cover the staple genres, start looking for festivals open for submissions. My peers have been selected to have their work read in festivals all over the country. The Eugene o'Neill, a well-respected theatre, hosts a young playwright's festival: https://www.theoneill.org/ypf. Since you are a woman, look into festivals seeking women applicants. The pool will be more specific so chances for you being accepting are already higher. Plus, it gives women a platform to spread their wings in this tough industry!
You should also make relations with local theatres during your studies. Reach out, introduce yourself, and send your portfolio. Many theatres I have work at love producing new work, especially from younger writers.
It is all about finding, researching, and acting on opportunities to get your work seen. This industry relies on networking; this skill should be practiced as much as your syntax. You will find yourself establishing a platform that can only grow in height and propel you into high-reaching goals for yourself as an independent freelancer and, most importantly, an artist. Best of luck!
Casey recommends the following next steps:
