Scripts, inspiration, and good times
A blog for playwrights, dramatists, dramaturges and theatre enthusiasts.
Scriptmore Blog: Books for Playwrights
No matter how many plays you have written or how long you’ve been writing, we can always get better at our craft. One way to do that is to read and study great books about playwriting from the experts. We recently had a great discussion on the Scriptmore Facebook group [link to join] about the best books for playwrights. Our community members offered so many good recommendations that we decided to collect them all in one place and share them on the blog. Check out the books below to find one that’s new to you—and feel free to contact us with more recommendations if you have a favorite!
Script Spotlight: The Keeper of Pigeons - A Farce in One Act by Henry P. Gravelle
"The Keeper of Pigeons" is a 40-minute farce about court page Lovett, who manages castle pigeons to cover up a secret romance. Full of humor, intrigue, and simple production needs, it's perfect for school drama groups. Written by Henry P. Gravelle, the play combines medieval adventure with Mel Brooks-style comedy.
Script Spotlight: Richly Poisoned - A Comedy in Two Acts by Thomas Nelson
Curious about the comedic chaos in "Richly Poisoned," a hilarious farce by Thomas Nelson? This blog dives into the play’s quirky characters, absurd situations, and even offers funny tips on how actors can convincingly "play dead" on stage.
Script Spotlight: The Harlem Renaissance by Lashonda Beauregard
Instead of taking modern characters back in time, though, Lashonda’s inventive story brings a young jazz pianist forward in time from 1927 to 2016.
Exploring Faith-Based Scripts
Explore a diverse range of faith-based scripts, from biblical dramas and monologues to educational skits and contemporary plays, perfect for various audiences and settings.
Script Spotlight: Mentor Wonders by Catherine Lee
Written and performed in 2022 with the help of players from the San Antonio theater community, the one-act play captures some of Lee’s experiences as a mentor for bilingual kids.
Script Spotlight: Unexpected by Andrew Kooman
“Unexpected,” Andrew Kooman’s popular and highly original script about unplanned pregnancies, takes center stage in this month’s Spotlight.
How to Select Monologues with Confidence
The spotlight shines, the hushed anticipation of the audience surrounds you, and it's just you and your words. Monologues, those singular moments in performance when a single voice takes center stage, have the power to captivate, inspire, and provoke deep emotions. Whether you're an aspiring actor or director, selecting the right monologue involves both art and technique. Let's review how to select and perform solo scripts with confidence, unlocking the essence of these compelling narrative soliloquies.
Empowering Scripts for Women
Two empowering scripts for women are "Notorious to Glorious: The Woman at the Well" by Rebecca Wimmer and "If It Meant Running" by Andrew Kooman. These scripts challenge conventional norms, delve into complex female characters, and provide a platform for actresses to shine in powerful roles.
How Drama Play Scripts Address Real-World Challenges
How do drama play scripts mirror society, spark conversations, and evoke empathy in audiences? Theater leads to collective action and a deeper understanding of the human condition.