Introduction to Playwriting

In this workshop students will learn the fundamentals of dramatic writing, including character development, plot structure, and dialogue, through a combination of writing exercises, script analysis, and peer feedback. This workshop concludes with students creating individual monologues and/or short scenes + a live stage reading.

CURRICULUM

• Foundational concepts: Introduction to playwriting, theatricality, and finding inspiration.
• Character development: Creating believable characters with clear objectives, motivations, and “inner life”.
• Plot and structure: Mapping the story, understanding conflict and obstacles, and building dramatic tension.
• Dialogue: Writing compelling, character-specific dialogue that sounds realistic while serving the plot.
• Revision and feedback: Participating in workshops to give and receive constructive criticism, rewriting based on constructive feedback, and learning stages of revision.

ACTIVITIES & EXERCISES

• Writing prompts: Generating ideas and writing scenes based on specific prompts.
• Character exercises: Creating character maps or writing monologues from a character’s perspective.
• Scene writing: Focusing on a specific aspect of craft, like action or dialogue, in short scenes.
• Reading aloud: Hearing one’s own work read aloud to catch issues and understand its impact.

AGES: 12-18 (Level: Beginner-Intermediate)

TUITION: $165.00 (must have current 25/26 annual registration) + processing fee

WHEN: 6:00-7:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, January 21-March 11, 2026. Live Stage Reading: 7:30-8:00 p.m.; Wednesday, March 11, 2026

TEACHING ARTISTS: Nick Olson

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

*****************************************************

ANNUAL REGISTRATION POLICY: All participants must pay an annual registration fee ($20 for one or more students within the same family) to participate in a workshop/camp. Valid from July 1st through June 30th annually.

*****************************************************

CANCELLATION POLICY:

• Minimum of 3 weeks prior to class: Full refund minus the annual registration fee.
• 2 weeks prior to class: Refund minus $75 administrative fee and annual registration fee.
• First day of class or later: No refund.

*****************************************************