How to write a play - five golden rules

Summary

This video offers essential tips for submitting a script, emphasizing proper formatting, concise dialogue, and the importance of stage directions. It advises scriptwriters to focus on the story, avoid overwhelming the script with unnecessary details, and keep dialogue clear and impactful. The video also encourages testing the script by having friends read it aloud to identify potential issues. Overall, the message is clear: ensure the script serves the narrative and allows actors the freedom to bring it to life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper script formatting is essential for making a good first impression. Ensure dialogue is indented and stage directions are in italics.
• 😀 Avoid overloading each page of the script. Keep it clean and uncluttered to make it easy for actors and producers to follow.
• 😀 Focus on the story. Each scene and line of dialogue should contribute meaningfully to the narrative you want to tell.
• 😀 Less is more when it comes to dialogue. Don't overcomplicate the writing—let the acting do the talking.
• 😀 Make sure your stage directions are not overly detailed. Stick to what is necessary to guide the actors, without controlling their performance.
• 😀 Test your script by having friends read through it. This helps identify parts of the script that may not be working before submitting it to others.
• 😀 Don't try to cram too much information into stage directions. Keep them clear and concise, focusing on the key actions.
• 😀 Avoid telling actors how to act. Instead, provide them with the necessary context to interpret the role and make it their own.
• 😀 Your script should be easy to read and clear. Ensure it's formatted in a way that makes it approachable for readers and producers.
• 😀 When submitting scripts, it’s important to know your audience. Submit to places like Radius Drama with a polished and well-thought-out script to maximize your chances of success.

Q & A

Why is proper script formatting important when submitting a play?

Proper formatting makes your script appear professional and shows that you've put thought into the presentation. It also helps potential producers, actors, and readers focus on the content without distractions, improving the likelihood of your script being taken seriously.

What is the recommended way to format dialogue and stage directions in a script?

Dialogue should be indented, while stage directions should be written in italics. This structure makes it easier for the reader to distinguish between what is being said and what is happening on stage.

What happens if you try to fit too much content on a single page?

Fitting too much content onto a page can make it harder for actors and producers to read and follow the script. It can also create a negative reaction, making it seem cluttered and difficult to work with.

How should you approach writing dialogue in a play?

Dialogue should be concise and impactful. Less is more—avoid over-explaining emotions or situations. The actors' performances should convey the emotions, not the dialogue itself.

What is the suggested approach when writing stage directions?

Stage directions should be kept to a minimum and only include essential details that guide the action. Avoid overloading the script with excessive direction, as this can restrict the director and actors' creativity.

How can you ensure that every scene and line of dialogue contributes to the story?

Constantly ask yourself if each scene and line serves the central narrative. If a part of the script doesn't move the story forward or add meaning, it's best to cut it.

Why should you avoid over-explaining character emotions in dialogue?

Over-explaining emotions in dialogue can make the script feel unnatural. Instead, let the actors' performances and the overall context convey the emotional depth, allowing for more subtlety and depth in the storytelling.

How can you test if your script works before sending it out?

Get friends or fellow writers to read through the script aloud. This helps you identify areas that don’t flow well or might be confusing, allowing you to revise before sending it to a professional.

What role do stage directions play in a script?

Stage directions provide essential context for how a scene should be staged and how actors should move, but they should be limited to avoid stifling creativity. The primary focus should be on the story and characters.

What is the benefit of testing your script with a live read-through?

A live read-through allows you to hear the dialogue and see how it plays out in real-time. It helps identify pacing issues, unnatural dialogue, or parts of the script that don’t quite work, allowing for improvements before the final submission.