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At its core, a play is a form of literature written to be performed by actors on a stage before an audience. Unlike other literary forms, plays are meant to be seen and heard, not just read. This unique characteristic defines much of what makes a play special. Think about playwriting as being similar to songwriting–you’re creating art that someone else will perform, and that performance will reflect their collaboration and participation in the creative process. We write the script and the production team performs the work. And none of it happens if any of that is missing.
At its core, a play is a form of literature written to be performed by actors on a stage before an audience. Unlike other literary forms, plays are meant to be seen and heard, not just read. This unique characteristic defines much of what makes a play special. Think about playwriting as being similar to songwriting–you’re creating art that someone else will perform, and that performance will reflect their collaboration and participation in the creative process. We write the script and the production team performs the work. And none of it happens if any of that is missing.
Here's an example of how our scripts might end up being played and received quite differently based on the necessarily collaborative nature of plays:
James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones
from Fences, by August Wilson
Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington
The same scene from Fences, by August Wilson
Let's break down some key elements that make up a play.
Let's break down some key elements that make up a play.
Script
Script
The script is the written blueprint of a play. It includes the dialogue spoken by the characters, stage directions, and instructions for movement and setting. The script is the foundation on which a play is built.
Dialog and Action
Dialog and Action
Plays rely heavily on dialogue and action to tell their story. Characters express their thoughts, emotions, and conflicts through what they say and do. This emphasis on spoken word and physical action creates an immediate connection with the audience.
Structure
Structure
Traditional plays often follow a three-act structure: setup, confrontation, and resolution. However, modern plays can vary greatly, sometimes using one act, multiple scenes, or even non-linear storytelling. The structure of a play shapes its pacing and how the narrative unfolds.
Characters
Characters
Characters are the heart of any play. They are crafted to be dynamic, complex, and capable of growth or change. Through their interactions, the plot progresses and themes are explored.
Theme and Subtext
Theme and Subtext
A play often explores central themes such as love, power, betrayal, and redemption. Subtext—what is implied but not directly stated—adds depth, allowing audiences to read between the lines and discover deeper meanings.
Stagecraft
Stagecraft
While the script provides the blueprint, stagecraft brings it to life. This includes set design, lighting, costumes, and sound—all elements that create the world of the play and enhance the storytelling. Effective stagecraft can transform a simple script into a vivid, immersive experience.
Audience Interaction
Audience Interaction
One of the unique aspects of a play is its immediate interaction with the audience. The energy of a live performance, the reactions of the audience, and the communal experience of theatre add layers of meaning and connection that cannot be replicated in other forms of writing.
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