Writing for the Stage Concentration

Program Overview

This playwriting program focuses on the foundational elements of dramatic writing and encourages students to explore their individual creative processes. It exposes students to the works and theories of various writers who amplify the voices and stories of historically underrepresented communities. The program provides opportunities for students to see their work performed and learn about the profession of playwriting through internships and connections with alumni.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Introduction to Playwriting
• Focuses on the foundational elements of dramatic writing: voice, action, place, and time.
• Intermediate Playwriting Techniques I & II
• Utilizes the foundational elements to reflect, challenge, and question the world around them through original works.
• Advance Playwriting Techniques I & II
• Encourages students to explore the nature of playwriting and their individual creative processes.
• Theatre Histories I & II
• Exposes students to the works and theories of various writers who amplify the voices and stories of historically underrepresented communities.
• Script Analysis
• Provides students with the tools to analyze and understand dramatic texts.
• Stagecraft
• Offers hands-on experience in the practical aspects of theatre production.
• Elements of Directing
• Develops students' skills in directing and collaborating with actors and other theatre artists.
• Shakespeare, the Stage, & Humanity
• Explores the works of William Shakespeare and their relevance to contemporary theatre.
• Advanced Studies in Drama and Theatre
• Allows students to delve deeper into specific areas of drama and theatre.
• Theatre Elective
• Students choose a course from a list of options to further their knowledge and skills in theatre.

Teaching:

• The program emphasizes a safe, engaging, inclusive, and encouraging community.
• Faculty are dedicated to empowering students to let their true voices be heard.
• The program provides opportunities for students to see their work performed through short play festivals and student-produced events.
• Students learn about the profession of playwriting through internships and connections with alumni working in the field.
• The program encourages students to explore their individual creative processes and develop sustainable and malleable writing practices.

Careers:

• Playwright
• Dramaturg
• Literary Manager
• Agent
• Producer
• Television Writer
• Graduate Studies