Life as a Playwright: A Survival Guide

A playwright's career and identity are explored in Jon Klein's book, including the day-to-day life of a writer, how to make yourself stand out, and situations you may encounter. It also includes seventeen interviews with other USA-based playwrights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Introduction:

Any playwright's career and identity are fundamentally shaped by the questions that are at the core of their work. In his insightful book, Jon Klein provides a captivating glimpse into the world of theatre writing. Beyond offering an account of the day-to-day life of a writer, Klein delves into the intricacies of navigating the industry and distinguishing oneself from the crowd. Furthermore, the book explores various situations that emerging playwrights are likely to encounter, such as handling rehearsals, workshops, castings, rewriting, venues, reviews, successes, and failures.

Key Insights:

Klein's book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing a career in theatre writing. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the industry. Aspiring playwrights are encouraged to embrace creativity, explore different writing styles, and continuously seek feedback from peers and mentors.

One of the book's standout features is its comprehensive coverage of the various aspects of theatre writing. Klein provides detailed accounts of the rehearsal process, workshopping sessions, and castings, offering practical tips and strategies for emerging playwrights to succeed in these critical stages. He also delves into the complexities of rewriting, adapting plays for different venues, and navigating the review process, providing valuable insights into the subjective nature of artistic evaluation.

In addition to its practical guidance, the book also features seventeen interviews with other USA-based playwrights, representing a wide range of experience. These interviews offer valuable perspectives on the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in theatre writing. From writers just starting to make a name for themselves to seasoned, award-winning veterans such as Sheila Callaghan, Steven Dietz, Keith Glover, Lauren Gunderson, John Pielmeier, and Jen Silverman, the playwrights share their insights, anecdotes, and experiences.

Conclusion:

Jon Klein's book is a must-read for anyone aspiring to become a successful theatre writer. It provides a comprehensive and practical guide to the industry, offering valuable insights and perspectives from established playwrights and emerging talents alike. With its engaging writing style and wealth of information, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone who dreams of bringing their stories to life on the stage.

Weight: 254g
Dimension: 216 x 137 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474285094