The Playwriting Process
Other People Are Reading
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Variety of Approaches
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The playwright begins by developing the characters, scenes and dialogue that form the play. Different writers accomplish this in different ways. He may start with a detailed outline of the plot and create scenes based on that map. Or she may create dialogue and actions in chronological order until the play reaches a natural conclusion. A final method has him writing individual, self-contained scenes. She then arranges them in dramatic order by using newer scenes to bridge logical gaps.
Polishing
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Rewriting polishes the initial draft. Through meticulous editing, he ensures that the characters display a dramatic arc, that motives and actions resonate clearly and truthfully, and that scenes flow comprehensibly from one to the other. Speeches and artistic objectives may appear and disappear as the playwright tries to clarify her message.
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Words Interpreted
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Readings infuse the writer's words with the live interpretation of an actor. He performs the play, script in hand, with other actors either informally around a table or with the help of a director, who stages the work in front of an audience. For the first time, the playwright can judge the effectiveness of her writing through first-hand experience or by observing the reactions of viewers. More rewriting usually follows each reading.
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Production adds the talents of crew and designers to the stage who design and create sound, lighting, scenery and props for the play. Actors memorize their lines and add meaningful actions under the guidance of a director. Preview performances allow the playwright to experience his work in three dimensions. She can then quickly hone her words before opening night.
Publication
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After the critical accolades and financial rewards of a successful run, the playwright can finally send his play out for publication. She may receive several rejection letters before a publisher takes a risk on her work. He may then need to reformat his play to meet publication standards and correct any typographical errors. However, the effort will be worth the printed final version. Theaters around the world can now produce her play and pay her royalties in the process.
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