Playwriting From Formula to Form

by Downs, William M.; Wright

• ISBN13: 9780155038615
• ISBN10: 0155038613
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1997-08-14
• Publisher: Cengage Learning

Summary

Structure is how a play logically fits together and can be archived through formula or form. To understand the complexities of structuring with form, the beginning playwright must first learn the fundamentals of formula. Covering everything in the playwriting process from the initial concept through production, PLAYWRITING: FROM FORMULA TO FORM presents a workable method for anyone interested in the craft. Exercises and techniques are presented to help students master the fundamental principles of good playwriting, giving them the freedom to be creative. Chapters on film and television writing as well as how to market a finished script and to select an agent, provide "real world" information on surviving as a writer in today's market.

Table of Contents

Preface	vii
Introduction	1	(16)
The Idea	17	(16)
Formula Writing	33	(7)
Characters in Action	40	(18)
Form Writing	58	(17)
Dialogue	75	(32)
Scenario, Writing, and Rewriting	107	(19)
Creativity	126	(7)
Format	133	(19)
Readings, Contests, and Submissions	152	(25)
Student-Written Plays	177	(68)
Productions and Agents	245	(14)
The Alternatives: Screenplays and Teleplays	259	(44)
Conclusion Becoming a Playwright	303	(3)
Appendix A More Terms Every Playwright Should Know	306	(4)
Appendix B Reference Books a Playwright Should Own	310	(1)
Appendix C Further Reading	311	(1)
Appendix D Playwriting Programs	312	(3)
Appendix E Templates	315	(7)
Appendix F Computer Programs	322	(3)
Appendix G Web Sites for Playwrights and Screenwriters	325	(3)
Index	328