Concentrating on clearly stated fundamental principles, this brief but efficient reference guide takes writers, step-by-step, to the completion of their first play. A practical workbook, it covers everything from selecting an idea to doing critical revision—and how to avoid the frustrating errors that typically plague first time playwrights. Chapter topics include situation and story, characters, play structure, keys to holding an audience, dialogue, stage movement, and theme. Exercises throughout the book focus on the playwright and the play in progress, allowing readers to better assess their own drafts. For individuals and community writers groups—even those with little theatre-going experience, as they pen their first one-act or full-length naturalistic drama.
A STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS LEADING BEGINNERS FROM IDEA TO FINISHED SCRIPT, Writing Your First Play BY STEPHEN SOSSAMAN prevents false starts, common mistakes, frustrating dead ends, and writer's block.
The beginning writer will learn the secrets to effective structure, intriguing characters, and powerful dialog.
This writing-group tested guide breaks down a sometime overwhelming and intimidating task into a logical and manageable sequence. The emphasis on first-draft evaluation and effective revision will help the beginning playwright get it written and get it right.