Overview

Advance your playwriting ideas from concept to production Playwriting For Dummies brings clarity, inspiration, practical know-how, and fun to every stage of your playwriting journey. First-time playwrights and veterans alike will get an inside look at the current state of the industry, including new trends and technologies shaping the art form. You’ll also get expert advice on how to refine your ideas, develop rich characters, write authentic dialogue, and shape a story that resonates. When you’re ready to fine-tune, Playwriting For Dummies has your back, with insights on welcoming feedback and using rehearsals to iron out dramatic kinks. Before long, you’ll be watching your work come to life on the stage. Develop strong concepts, memorable characters, and compelling dialogue that moves your story forward Improve your scripts through revision strategies, rehearsal insights, and practical steps that take your play from draft to performance Adapt your writing to today’s shorter run times and smaller casts Explore how AI is changing theatre, and how you can use it to improve your scripts Ideal for aspiring playwrights and creative storytellers eager to understand the world of theatre, Playwriting For Dummies shows you how to navigate a rapidly evolving industry and create work for the stage that will have audiences on the edge of their seats.

Full Product Details

Author:   Angelo Parra
Publisher:   John Wiley & Sons Inc
Imprint:   For Dummies
Edition:   2nd edition
Dimensions:   Width: 18.80cm , Height: 2.50cm , Length: 23.40cm
Weight:   0.476kg
ISBN:  

9781394430246

ISBN 10:   1394430248
Pages:   352
Publication Date:   06 August 2026
Audience:   General/trade ,  General
Format:   Paperback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   Available To Order  
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Table of Contents

Introduction 1 Part 1: Catching the Playwriting Bug 7 CHAPTER 1: Introducing the Art and Craft of Playwriting 9 CHAPTER 2: Living the Life of a Playwright 21 CHAPTER 3: What Makes a Play 47 CHAPTER 4: Starting with an Idea 73 CHAPTER 5: Finding Your Play's Theme 91 Part 2: Creating a Blueprint for Your Play 103 CHAPTER 6: Putting Your Story in Focus 105 CHAPTER 7: Creating Full and Rich Characters 127 CHAPTER 8: Dialogue: The Most Important Tool in Your Toolbox 143 CHAPTER 9: Practical Considerations: Staging, Cast, and Audience 167 Part 3: The Nuts and Bolts of Putting Your Story Together 187 CHAPTER 10: The Beginning: Finding a Starting Point for Your Play 189 CHAPTER 11: The Middle: Developing Your Storyline 211 CHAPTER 12: The Climax: Bringing the Conflict to a Head 231 CHAPTER 13: The Resolution: Wrapping It All Up 251 Part 4: The Show Must Go On 261 CHAPTER 14: Getting Your Play Read and Making Revisions 263 CHAPTER 15: Casting, Rehearsals and Premieres: Nail Biting 101 281 Part 5: The Part of Tens 301 CHAPTER 16: Ten Things Every Playwright Should Know 303 CHAPTER 17: Ten Hallmarks of a Great Play 311 Index 319

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Author Information

Angelo Parra is an award-winning playwright whose works have been produced Off-Broadway, at prestigious regional theatres throughout the United States, in Canada, and overseas. He has taught playwriting, theatre, film, and writing for more than 30 years at several colleges, including NYU.

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