VERBATIM: The Fun of Making Theatre Seriously

Verbatim theatre is a popular form of theatre that is widely studied and frequently staged. Mark Wheeller, the author of verbatim hits such as Too Much Punch for Judy, Hard to Swallow, Missing Dan Nolan, and Game Over, has written a new book that takes a personal journey through the form and demystifies the making process. The book is a perfect handbook for teachers, educators, students, and anyone interested in the creative process.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 02 September 2021
\n Publisher: Salamander Street Limited
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Verbatim theatre, a widely studied and frequently staged form, is present in various contexts across the world. In his new book, Mark Wheeller, the acclaimed author of popular verbatim hits such as "Too Much Punch for Judy," "Hard to Swallow," "Missing Dan Nolan," and "Game Over," delves into the intricacies of this genre and offers a personal exploration of its making process. Mark's journey into verbatim theatre began with a remarkable individual named Graham Salmon, the world's fastest blind runner.

Verbatim: The Fun of Making Theatre Seriously serves as an invaluable resource for teachers, educators, students, and anyone with a keen interest in the creative realm. It provides a comprehensive guide to the art of verbatim theatre, offering insights and techniques that will empower individuals to create compelling and impactful theatrical experiences.

Mark's book begins by introducing the concept of verbatim theatre and its origins. He explains how this form emerged as a way to capture the authenticity and truthfulness of real-life conversations and experiences. By transcribing these conversations verbatim, theatre artists can create a powerful and immersive experience for their audiences, allowing them to connect with the characters and the stories on a deeper level.

Throughout the book, Mark shares his own experiences and insights into the process of creating verbatim theatre. He discusses the importance of research, interviewing, and listening skills in gathering the raw material for a play. He also explores the challenges and rewards of working with real people, including the need for sensitivity, respect, and empathy.

Mark emphasizes the collaborative nature of verbatim theatre, highlighting the importance of working closely with actors, directors, and designers to bring the stories to life on stage. He discusses the role of the playwright in shaping the narrative and the challenges of capturing the essence of real conversations in a theatrical context.

Verbatim: The Fun of Making Theatre Seriously is filled with practical tips and exercises that will help readers develop their own verbatim theatre projects. Mark provides examples of successful verbatim plays from around the world, showcasing the diversity and versatility of this form. He also offers guidance on how to adapt and refine verbatim material for different audiences and venues.

In conclusion, Mark Wheeller's "Verbatim: The Fun of Making Theatre Seriously" is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of verbatim theatre. With its comprehensive approach, practical insights, and inspiring examples, this book provides a valuable resource for teachers, educators, students, and theatre enthusiasts alike. Whether you are a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the field, this book will empower you to create compelling and authentic theatrical experiences that resonate with your audiences.

\n Weight: 530g\n
Dimension: 175 x 244 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781914228124\n \n