Students will be introduced to the major components of writing for the stage, including dramatic action, character and dialogue. Exercises designed to familiarize students with the tools available to the playwright -- and to connect each student with the wellspring of his or her own creativity -- will be assigned each week. Readings of exercises and works-in-progress will take place on a weekly basis. In addition to reading each other's work, members of the class will also serve as the first test audience for your colleagues. Students will be expected to discuss their reaction to each exercise that is read. The final project for the course will be the completion of the first draft of a one-act play. It is possible that one-act scripts may grow out of assigned exercises.
