Playwriting: Write a One Act Play!

Nothing is more thrilling than writing an original play. It's all the fun of creative writing with the added thrill of getting to read it out loud with others....or just listening to others perform it for you.

This class will lead young writers through a simple process to generate a three scene play in one act. Along the way, we will learn all about the critical components for effective theater.

First meeting: We'll introduce ourselves and play some quick theater games to get to know each other. We'll read a sample scene to learn correct playwriting format and the necessary components for a play. We'll learn about what makes strong characters through interactive exercises. For homework, students will be asked to choose a main character from a series of guided questions.

Second meeting: Students can choose to share their characters by offering them up for interview by the class. We will discuss and learn about objectives and conflict. We'll learn about the structure of an "I want" monologue and work on developing some for our characters. For homework, students will be asked to write the first scene of a play centered around this monologue.

Third meeting: Students can choose to share their first scene to the class for a supportive discussion. We will all collectively branstorm what might happen in the next scene of each play and review what makes a strong scene where characters fight for what they want. Homework will be for students to write the second scene of their play.

Fourth meeting: Students can choose to share their second scene and receive feedback on ideas of how to wrap things up in their third and final scene. We'll discuss the challenges of writing a strong ending and look at examples of great endings. Hoemwork will be for students to conclude their play with a third and final scene.

Fifth meeting: Students can share their completed plays for performance. We'll shower each other with deserved praise and come up with ideas on how these plays could be expanded into longer works.