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Originally released March 21, 2025In this episode of Unglossy, Tom and Jeffrey sit down with Keenan Scott II, a prolific playwright, poet, actor, director, and producer from Queens, New York. Keenan delves into his artistic journey, beginning with his early passion for visual arts and comic books, and transitioning into poetry and performance as he navigated his formative years in Maryland. His experiences at open mic nights in D.C. were pivotal, shaping his creative expression and laying the groundwork for his future in theater. Keenan also discusses the genesis of his renowned play, "Thoughts of a Colored Man," which started as college monologues aimed at authentically representing Black experiences absent from mainstream theater.The conversation further explores the complexities and challenges of bringing a play to Broadway. Keenan sheds light on the logistical and financial hurdles, including navigating the influential theater families that control Broadway venues. Despite these challenges and the abrupt end to his play's run due to COVID-19, Keenan's work continues to make a significant impact. Looking ahead, he shares his excitement for future projects through his company, Project Toy Entertainment, aiming to fuse various artistic mediums and empower new creative voices. His advice to emerging artists—to believe in themselves and embrace perseverance—is a testament to his journey and dedication to the arts."Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Studio and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/Send us a textSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 469th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Your Goals for 2026 - A Simple Way! Check out my BIG Brand New Playwriting Event: HOW TO WRITE A FANTASTIC PRODUCTION-BASED PLAY IN 28 DAYS! https://www.manhattanrep.com/28dayplay $50 off until January 5th, 2026 Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM @manhattanrepertorytheatre And... PLAYWRITING COACHING IS 40% off for THE NEW YEAR! PLAYWRITING COACHING with Ken Wolf https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Also 40% off which is huge! Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
On today's episode, I'm joined by writer Bethany Henry Gemmell for a special end-of-year conversation. It felt like the perfect way to close out the final episode of 2026—thoughtful, generous, and deeply inspiring. This marks Bethany's second time on the podcast (or, as I like to call it, the Chai Room), and it was such a joy to reconnect. In this episode, we dive deep into the dramaturgical process, with Bethany leading the conversation around working as dramaturg on the second audio series of Chai with Rai, An Ode: Reframing the Classics, now streaming on Patreon. We also explore the “grass is greener” mindset, Bethany's upcoming projects—including a new play and a new novel—and then shares valuable advice for emerging playwrights, freelance creatives, and dramaturgs. You'll also hear a snippet from Catherine, the short story Bethany wrote for the very first storytelling series, Symphonies of Beaded Threads. Bethany's bio: Bethany (they/he) is a Northern playwright. They explore themes exploring family, our relationship to media, and humanity's capability to be good and evil. Examples include being a co-writer for Royal Court Theatre's Listen Local project in 2019, 'WOLF' at Theatre503 in 2023, and 'well, you could be a guy (non-binary edition)' for Baron Court Theatre's Queering the Canon Festival in 2023. Their most recent project was 'The Trial of Thomas Greene' at Hope Mill Theatre for Qweerdog Shorts/Hope 200 Festival in 2025. They were selected for Young Vic's inaugural 2022/23 Creators Program, Soho Theatre's 2023/24 Writers' Lab, and for Nottingham Playhouse's Amplify Program in 2025. Their audio-duologue 'Catherine', dedicated to and involving their mum, is now featured in the Chai With Rai exhibition at the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre. They have provided dramaturgical support for community companies like Neurospace Theatre and Wild Forest Theatre from 2020 to 2023. Now, they're developing their dramaturgical skills by supporting artists for An Ode: Reframing the Classics. Topics Breakdown: "Grass is always greener on the other side" mentality. Starving artist vs life experience and the success metrics we place on ourselves. Evolution of personal artistic storytelling. Playwriting with and through ADHD playwriting. Exploring time and thoughts as a playwright. Dramaturgy process for An Ode: Reframing the Classics. Reflecting on the Chai with Rai's Summer exhibition 20245 in London/ Theatre 503 Rapid Writers response to Stray Dogs by Theo Chester. The Royal Court Theatre's Listen Local Program. Dramaturgy process / advice for emerging talent. To Listen to Bethany's audio short story CLICK HERE. To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/hgemmellian/ & https://twitter.com/hengemmell Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ Guest: https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/11946 Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.
Unraveling Suspense: A Journey Through "Two Birds with One Stone"The conversation unfolds as a suspenseful play titled 'Two Birds with One Stone,' featuring themes of emotional conflict, relationships, and the dark exploration of suicide. The narrative follows Walter and Eleanor as they navigate their strained marriage, culminating in a tragic twist that reveals deeper issues of guilt and responsibility. The play's structure and character dynamics create a gripping atmosphere, leading to a shocking conclusion that leaves the audience reflecting on the nature of despair and the human condition.In the world of classic radio dramas, few productions capture the essence of suspense quite like "Two Birds with One Stone." This gripping tale, brought to life by the talented Dana Andrews, takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions, weaving a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.The Plot UnfoldsThe story begins with a seemingly innocent birthday message recorded by Eleanor and her dog, Tracy, for her husband, Walter. However, as the plot thickens, we are drawn into a web of intrigue and deception. Walter, a playwright struggling with his work, finds himself entangled in a series of events that lead to a shocking revelation. The narrative explores themes of boredom, despair, and the lengths one might go to escape them.A Tale of SuspenseAs the drama unfolds, the tension builds, culminating in a dramatic confrontation by the river. The clever use of sound and dialogue keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next. The story's climax is both unexpected and satisfying, leaving listeners with a sense of closure and a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations."Two Birds with One Stone" is a testament to the power of storytelling in the audio medium. Its ability to captivate and engage audiences is a reminder of the timeless appeal of radio dramas. As we listen to the echoes of the past, we are reminded of the enduring power of suspense to entertain and enlighten.Subscribe now to explore more classic tales of suspense and intrigue.TakeawaysThe play explores the complexities of relationships and emotional strain.Boredom can lead to drastic decisions, as illustrated by the character's thoughts on suicide.The use of a recording as a narrative device adds depth to the story.Conflict arises from misunderstandings and lack of communication between partners.The character's guilt is a central theme that drives the plot forward.The dog serves as a symbol of loyalty and the emotional connection between characters.The investigation reveals hidden truths and the consequences of actions.The final twist challenges the audience's perception of the protagonist.The play highlights the impact of societal pressures on individual choices.Suspense is built through character interactions and the unfolding mystery.Suspense, Drama, Relationships, Suicide, Guilt, Investigation, Emotional Conflict, Playwriting, Mystery, Tragedy
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 468th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: The Miracle on 36th Street! Check out my BIG Brand New Playwriting Event: HOW TO WRITE A FANTASTIC PRODUCTION-BASED PLAY IN 28 DAYS! https://www.manhattanrep.com/28dayplay Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM @manhattanrepertorytheatre And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textIn this episode, musical theatre playwright Isaac Laskin stopped by Playwright's Spotlight to talk about the the development and evolution of his hit L.A. musical Hey, Morgan. He dispels the rumor of being challenged to write a musical about a dear friend, how the origination started as individual standalone songs about his roommate and how it later evolved into a musical. We unpack its growth from a short-run, small-theater production into a bigger, longer running show which included a copy of the soundtrack for the audience to leave with. We discuss the logistics of the cast album, writing multilayered/tracked songs, comedy in the current climate, pushing the envelope and crossing the line, and putting it out into the public for outside production. It's an inspiring conversation, where even the most simple concepts and turn into much more ambitious projects. Enjoy!Isaac Laskin is a musical playwright, actor, director, musician, and screenwriter. His hit musical Hey Morgan ran the LA circuit at The Attic Theater in January 2011 and made a revival at the Black Dalia Theatre from 2011 through 2012. He is a former English Teacher at the prestigious Harvard-Westlake Upper School in Los Angeles.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/IqpqINTDCfYLinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode -The Geffen - https://www.geffenplayhouse.orgHey, Morgan on iTunes - https://music.apple.com/us/album/hey-morgan-original-cast-recording/1532877933Hey, Morgan on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1wHV2oNiYxDpAgt68w9IYV?si=YIsPEbaVQ5WvlkbHzpsyKQThe Lincoln Bedroom on iTunes - https://music.apple.com/us/album/broken-record/1493495387Websites and socials for James Elden, PMP, and Playwright's Spotlight -Punk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through Los Angeles Collegiate Playwrights Festivalwww.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfestival.com/services.htmlSupport the show
Guest: Abe KooglerPlaywright of Deep Blue Sound, Staff Meal, Fulfillment Center, Kill Floor, Aspen Ideas, Lisa My Friend, and Blue Skies ProcessOfficial Website: https://www.abekoogler.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abekoogAbout Abe Koogler: Abe's plays include Deep Blue Sound (Public Theatre), Staff Meal (Playwrights Horizons), Fulfillment Center (Manhattan Theatre Club, Obie Award), Kill Floor (Lincoln Center Theater), Aspen Ideas (Studio Theatre), Lisa My Friend (Kitchen Dog), and Blue Skies Process (Goodman Theatre). Abe has won an Obie Award in Playwriting, the Weissberger Award, the Dramatists Guild's Lanford Wilson Award, and the Theater Master's Standing Ovation Award. He earned graduate degrees in playwriting from UT-Austin and Juilliard. His plays have been directed by Arin Arbus, Morgan Green, Daniel Aukin, Lila Neugebauer, Les Waters, and Will Davis, among others. He also works as a political speechwriter. The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - EditorAdditional music and sound effects licensed through Envato ElementsLINKSBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene NewsletterSpecial ThanksJennifer IsaacsonLauren KardosJeffery KeilholtzShow ContributorsLeah BarkerJustin BorakJim ColleranZach DulliKJ LamparAbe Koogler The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - Editor Additional music and sound effects licensed through Envato Elements LINKSBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene Newsletter
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 467th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: The Three Things you need to FOCUS ON when you are writing a play! LAST DAY! SPECIAL BLACK FRIDAY WEEK SALE on Playwriting Services until Monday December 1, 2025. Everything I offer is on Sale with a BIG DISCOUNT - up to 50% off! Check it out here! https://www.manhattanrep.com/black-friday Check out my BIG Brand New Playwriting Event: HOW TO WRITE A FANTASTIC PRODUCTION-BASED PLAY IN 28 DAYS! https://www.manhattanrep.com/28dayplay Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM @manhattanrepertorytheatre And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 30% off Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere And lastly, My Coaching Program: Write your Own One Actor Show is 30% off https://www.manhattanrep.com/one-actor-show Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textPlaywright Clara Rodriguez jumped into the Playwright's Spotlight in the midst of the run of her latest play - Pointy Scissors. In this discussion, we delve into the theatre company at Theatre West in Los Angeles and their Writers in Residence program. We unpack her journey into playwriting and her motivation and inspiration, the fees and benefits of various theatre companies, her steps after production, the cautions of acquiring an agent, and resources and her process of playwriting. We also chat about feedback and rewrites, letting go of creative control, writing workshops, living in the creative "world", writing comedy and defining weird. We also talk about the benefits of improv in the realm of playwriting and approaching character. Clara brings a plethora of knowledge and uncommon resources when it comes to the craft. Enjoy!For tickets to Pointy Scissors at Theatre West in Los Angeles through December 7th, visit - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pointy-scissors-tickets-1749160107969Clara Rodriguez is a playwright, actress, and director. She is a member of Theatre West and participant of their Writer's in Residence Series. She is also the creator of the web series It Takes a Village and Psycho Therapy. Plays include – Tequila Sunrise, Starry Night, Leaky Brain Syndrome, Home Depot, A Perfect Evening, and Have a Heart. Her most recent play Pointy Scissors opened November 7th at Theatre West in Los Angeles as part of their WestFest series, and closes December 7th.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/f8YGc_xgcUsLinks to resources mentioned in this video -Theatre West - www.theatrewest.orgGroup Rep - https://thegrouprep.comNew Play Exchange - https://thegrouprep.comWrite Away - https://www.pw.org/literary_events/write_away_a_free_online_improvwriting_showjamTheatre Sports - https://www.garrymarshalltheatre.org/improv-classImpro - https://www.improtheatre.comWebsites and socials for Clara Rodriguez - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/clara.rodriguez.982IG - @clararodriguezinstaWebsites and socials for James Elden, PMP, and Playwright's Spotlight -Punk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through Los Angeles Collegiate Playwrights Festivalwww.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfestival.com/services.htmlSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 466th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Moving a Play in to NYC from Montana! SPECIAL BLACK FRIDAY WEEK SALE on Playwriting Services until Monday December 1, 2025. Everything I offer is on Sale with a BIG DISCOUNT - up to 50% off! Check it out here! https://www.manhattanrep.com/black-friday Check out my BIG Brand New Playwriting Event: HOW TO WRITE A FANTASTIC PRODUCTION-BASED PLAY IN 28 DAYS! https://www.manhattanrep.com/28dayplay Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM @manhattanrepertorytheatre And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 30% off Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere And lastly, My Coaching Program: Write your Own One Actor Show is 30% off https://www.manhattanrep.com/one-actor-show Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Guest: Kaela Mei-Shing GarvinOfficial Website - https://www.kaelameishinggarvin.com/Playwright of Tiger Beat, Ping Pong, Corners Grove, High School Coven, do this in [x] of, you know that feeling, Cap's Last, Harpers Ferry, Call Out Culture: or, the unbearable whiteness of being, Pride and Prejudice, The Well-Tempered Clavier, and The Bakunawa.Guest Bio – Kaela Mei-Shing Garvin (they/she) is a playwright, theatermaker, educator and new work advocate drawn to messy truths, slippery timelines, and theatrical forms that refuse the expected. Kaela's plays distort time, poke at power, and explore identity through diaspora, queerness, and quick changes. Their work questions norms at the heart of the theatrical form — weaving nonlinear structure, questioning inherited systems, conjuring ghosts, magic, and 雲吞麵. Their plays have been published by DPS; honored by the Leah Ryan Prize, Bay Area Playwrights Festival, & the Kennedy Center; produced at the Know Theatre of Cincinnati & Strand Theater of Baltimore; and developed by theaters like Ma-Yi, 2ST, & the Alliance. They are currently Assistant Professor of Playwriting at Salem State University.The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - EditorAdditional music and sound effects licensed through Envato ElementsLINKSBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene NewsletterSpecial ThanksJennifer IsaacsonLauren KardosJeffery KeilholtzShow ContributorsLeah BarkerJustin BorakJim ColleranZach DulliKJ LamparKaela Mei-Shing Garvin The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - Editor Additional music and sound effects licensed through Envato Elements LINKSBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene Newsletter
Send us a text"It has to be good vibes all the way." How does an idea become a script? How does a script become a full, on-stage production? How does one assemble the team necessary to make that transition as seamless as possible?In this episode, Emmeline sits down with the creative team behind the brand new play, Training Set, to answer these questions and more. The episode features actors and producers Chelsea LeSage and Jenilyn Rodriguez, writer Sonny Marwah, and director Serena Norr. The team shares the organic process by which the show came together and the magic by which they were able to assemble a creative support system. They also talk candidly about the challenges of taking a show from script to stage in just a few months' time. Chelsea shares her mantras for synergy, Jenilyn talks about the ways in which theater can be healing, Sonny discusses his goals for audience reception as a writer, and Serena shares the collaborative attitude that she tries to bring to every production. They also talk about the magic of having friends that encourage and support your creativity!Training Set opens on December 3rd and runs through December 7th at Theatre Row in New York City. To learn more about the play, or to buy tickets, visit the official website and be sure to follow the show on Instagram. There will be a special talkback after Thursday's performance!For behind-the-scenes information and more about Journey of an Artist, visit the Journey of Series official webpage, or follow Emmeline on social media at @EmmelineMusic.
Episode SummaryThis week, host Justin Boark sits down with award-winning playwright, director, and educator James Ijames, the creative force behind plays including Kill Move Paradise, The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington, and the Pulitzer Prize-winning, Tony-nominated Fat Ham. Their conversation digs into process, purpose, and the responsibility of telling stories that reshape the American stage. If you care about bold writing, fearless storytelling, and the next wave of theatrical innovationEpisode NotesGuestJames Ijames – @jwijames | Official Website - https://www.jamesijames.com/Playwright of Abandon, Good Bones, Reverie, Youth, History of Walking, Matter Out of Place, Kill Move Paradise, White, Moon Man Walk, The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington, The Threshing Floor, Fat Ham, and TJ Loves Sally 4 Ever.Topics Covered• Acting, directing, and writing• Philadelphia, PA• The work of playwright August Wilson• Finding the comedy in Hamlet James Ijames Bio – James' plays have been produced by Flashpoint Theater Company, Orbiter 3, Theatre Horizon, Wilma Theatre, Theatre Exile, Azuka Theatre (Philadelphia, PA), The National Black Theatre, JACK, The Public Theater (NYC), Hudson Valley Shakespeare Theater, Steppenwolf Theatre, Definition Theatre, Timeline Theater (Chicago IL) Shotgun Players (Berkeley, CA) and have received development with PlayPenn New Play Conference, The Lark, Playwright's Horizon, Clubbed Thumb, Villanova Theater, Wilma Theater, Azuka Theatre and Victory Garden. James is the 2011 F. Otto Haas Award for an Emerging Artist recipient, and two Barrymore Awards for Outstanding Direction of a Play for The Brothers Size with Simpatico Theatre Company and Gem of the Ocean with Arden Theatre. James is a 2015 Pew Fellow for Playwriting, the 2015 winner of the Terrance McNally New Play Award for WHITE, the 2015 Kesselring Honorable Mention Prize winner for ....Miz Martha, a 2017 recipient of the Whiting Award, a 2019 Kesselring Prize for Kill Move Paradise, a 2020 and 2022 Steinberg Prize, the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in Drama recipient and a 2023 Tony nominee for Best Play for Fat HamJames was a founding member of Orbiter 3, Philadelphia's first playwright producing collective. He received a BA in Drama from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and an MFA in Acting from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - EditorAdditional music and sound effects licensed through Envato ElementsLinksBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene NewsletterSpecial ThanksJennifer IsaacsonLauren KardosJeffery KeilholtzShow ContributorsLeah BarkerJustin BorakJim ColleranZach DulliJames IjamesKJ Lampar The Scene TeamJustin Borak - Host Zach Dulli - Executive Producer KJ Lampar - Producer Leah Barker - Producer & Talent CoordinatorJim Colleran - Editor Additional music and sound effects licensed through Envato Elements LINKSBe sure to follow The Scene Podcast on Instagram and YouTubeSubscribe to The Scene Newsletter
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 465th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: How to be Big and Bold in your Playwriting and in your Life! Check out my BIG Brand New Playwriting Event: HOW TO WRITE A FANTASTIC PRODUCTION-BASED PLAY IN 28 DAYS! https://www.manhattanrep.com/28dayplay Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM @manhattanrepertorytheatre And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code: YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere And lastly, My Coaching Program: Write your Own One Actor Show is 25% off with the code IAMTHESTAR at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/one-actor-show Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textDietrich Smith jumped into the Playwright's Spotlight after the opening of his World Premiere adaptation of Franz Kafka's novel Amerika. We explore his background as the literary manager at the Open Fist Theatre Company and the trends he observed from submissions. We speak about establishing theme and whose story it is in a piece, mapping the journey, approaching adaptation, and the history of Kafka's Amerika. We delve into writing an ending to an incomplete work, cutting what you love, the length of plays in modern theatre, the politics of production, reversals, learning playwriting by doing, and the concept of no rules in theatre. We wrap our conversation up the benefits of having been a story editor, holding interest and learning from the greats and, finally, his dive into acting and becoming a playwright. It is a brilliant and insightful conversation I hope you all will enjoy as much as I did. Cheers!For tickets to Amerika, or the Man Who Disappeared at the Atwater Village Theater in Los Angeles through November 22nd, visit - https://openfisttheatre.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket#/events/calendarDietrich Smith is a playwright, director, and actor and was the literary manager for the Open Fist theatre company in Los Angeles from 1999 to 2006. He was writer and story editor for Nickelodeon and PBS on shows as Doug, Arthur, for which he received three Emmy Awards; Martha Speaks; Curious George; and, most recently, Hop.To watch the video format of this episode visit - https://youtu.be/ZIN5XqpRjdgLinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode -Open Fist Theatre Company - openfist.orgDramatist's Bill of Rights - https://www.dramatistsguild.com/rightsWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through Los Angeles Collegiate Playwrights Festivalwww.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfestival.com/services.htmlSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 464th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Is your play a Marathon? My Coaching Program: Write your Own One Actor Show is 25% off with the code IAMTHESTAR at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/one-actor-show Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre AND my standard Playwriting Coaching is 25% off with the code WRITENOW at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching And... Script Consultations are 20% off with the code: YESYESYES https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation AND... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code: YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textSofia Streisand dropped into Playwright's Spotlight to discuss the U.S. premiere of her play Bluebeard's Castle (that I misspoke as Blackbeard's) November 1st through November 23rd. In this discussion, we discuss the difference between Russian, European, and American theatre, her journey from musical theatre to playwriting, writing multiple voices, and writing for specific actors and their cadence, mannerisms, and nuances. We unpack writing in a second language, the concept of and recognizing imposter syndrome, writing bilingually, refraining to avoid offense, and introducing sensitive topics. We follow up with "weight bearing" walls, inspirational feedback, when a show is born, the difficulty/benefits or wearing different hats, as well as adding layers and references. It's a brilliant interview discussing cultural aspects of playwriting we can all acquire from. Another great learning experience I know you will learn from. Enjoy!Sofia Streisand is producer, director, and playwright born in St. Petersburg, Russia. She co-wrote the musical based on Alexander's Pushkin's masterpiece The Queen of Spades.For tickets to Bluebeard's Castle at the Odyssey Theatre through November 23rd, visit - https://odysseytheatre.com/whats-on/bluebeards-castle/To watch the video format of this episode, click - https://youtu.be/JaqIonYRzSIWebsite and Socials for Sofia Streisand -https://sofiastreisand.com/Websites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through Los Angeles Collegiate Playwrights Festivalwww.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfestival.com/services.htmlSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 463rd episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Writing the 1 Actor Show! My Coaching Program: Write your Own One Actor Show is 25% off with the code IAMTHESTAR at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/one-actor-show Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre AND until October 27, my standard Playwriting Coaching is 40% off with the code PLAYPOD at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code: YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textIn this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews middle grade author and illustrator Rob Baddorf, who shares insights into his writing journey, the inspiration behind his 'Recruited by the FBI' series, and the unique blend of faith and adventure in his stories. Rob discusses the importance of serialized fiction for engaging young readers and his experiences as an illustrator. He also reflects on the influential books that shaped his writing and reveals what's next for his career.Rob Baddorf, Author Don't forget to join in the 2nd Annual Holiday Book Drive partnership with Storyteller's Shelf Podcast. More Details at the following link. Help share the magic of children's literature with every young reader.2025 Holiday Book Drive: September 30 – December 1 – The Storyteller's Shelf PodcastTakeaways Rob Baddorf has published over 80 titles, including the 'Recruited by the FBI' series.The series features a boy recruited by the FBI, incorporating Christian themes into action-adventure storytelling.Rob aims to show that life is an adventure and God is involved in those adventures.He chose a serialized format for his middle grade books to keep readers engaged and entertained.Rob's background in film and screenwriting influences his storytelling style.Illustration plays a significant role in Rob's creative process, enhancing the reading experience.Rob's writing journey began in middle school with a play assignment that sparked his passion for storytelling.He transitioned from screenwriting to novel writing after feeling disillusioned with the film industry.Influential books like 'King Solomon's Mines' and 'The Trumpet of the Swan' have shaped Rob's perspective on storytelling.Rob is currently working on three more books in the 'Recruited by the FBI' series. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rob Baddorf and His Work02:10 Exploring the Recruited by the FBI Series05:42 The Adventure of Life and Faith07:04 Serialized Fiction for Middle Grade Readers09:19 The Role of Illustration in Storytelling11:47 Rob's Journey from Playwriting to Novels15:43 Influential Books and Their Impact19:40 What's Next for Rob Baddorf?Let's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress
Send us a textAnkita Raturi basked under the Playwright's Spotlight for the World Premiere of her play Neha & Neel. In this discussion we break down the concept of applied theatre and being a teaching artist, how it effects character, exercises that extrude character and whether or not the practice makes it into a piece. We unpack earning a monologue, the first steps of playwriting, writing bi-lingually, dramaturgical playwriting, and the audience's experience. We also discuss finding directors for foreign language pieces, writing multiple characters for one actor, discovering "magic" in grad school, self producing, keeping notes, ego, and good ideas, and clear guidelines and the ethics of paying fees to have one's work read. Ankita is a force to be reckoned with that every playwright can learn from. Enjoy!For tickets to Neha and Neel at LATC in Los Angeles through November 16th, visit - https://www.latinotheaterco.org/nehaandneelAnkita Raturi is a currently Queens-based writer and teaching artist. She writes hyper-theatrical works in English, Hindi/Urdu, and sometimes Bahasa Indonesia about living between cultural identities and contending with the ongoing legacies of colonization. She is the 2024 Winner of the Los Angeles New Play Project Award, and 2022 Winner of the Bret Adams and Paul Reisch Foundation's Ollie Award. New play developments include Theater Mu, Playwrights' Center, New York Theatre Workshop, Roundabout, Ma-Yi Theater Company, South Coast Repertory, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Playwrights Realm, and Berkshire Theatre Group, just to name a few. She is currently practicing applied theatre as an actor-teacher with CUNY's Creative Arts Team. B.F.A. in Drama: NYU/Tisch. M.F.A. in Playwriting at UC San Diego.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/T19LZUw4vC4Links to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - New Play Project - https://lanpp.orgBret Adams and Paul Reisch Foundation - https://www.bretnpaulfoundation.org/Theater Mu - https://www.theatermu.orgPlaywrights' Center - https://pwcenter.orgNew York Theatre Workshop - https://www.nytw.org/Roundabout Theatre Company - https://www.roundabouttheatre.orgMa-Yi Theater Company - https://ma-yitheatre.org/South Coast Rep - https://www.scr.orgEnsemble Studio Theatre - https://www.ensemblestudiotheatre.org/Playwrights Realm - https://www.playwrightsrealm.org/Berkshire Theatre Group - https://www.berkshiretheatregroup.org/Clubbed Thumb - https://www.clubbedthumb.org/New Play Exchange - https://newplayexchange.orgSocials for Ankita Raturi - IG - @ankitawritesWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through Los Angeles Collegiate Playwrights Festivalwww.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfestival.com/services.htmlSupport the show
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Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 462nd episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE STUCK! Check out our 3 Tiers of developing your play in NYC with Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Reading We will put together a Professional Reading of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop We will bring to life a workshop production of your play in NYC! https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program AND... Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre AND for this week only, my standard Playwriting Coaching is 40% off with the code PLAYPOD at checkout. https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching And... MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code: YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textPlaywright Crystal Skillman beamed into the Playwright's Spotlight from Indianapolis for the run of her World Premiere play The Rocket Men. We discuss how one becomes a 4-time NYT's Critics' Pick playwright, what it means to be a "theatrical" writer, writing design on the page and offering solutions, trusting and listening to your audience, the concept of "magic but no magic", and learning from seeing a production of your work. We also unpack the benefits (or challenges) of directors or producers taking a piece in a different direction, American vs European theatre, stealing from and taking a musical approach to general playwriting, the process of getting your work out there and operating like a theatre company. We touch on when it's time to publish, working on the puzzle, having challenging but achievable goals, the ecosystem of theatre, struggles of becoming a working playwright, writing exercises that build, and how writing in other mediums evolve and affect the economy in one's writing. Crystal offers an amazing alternative approach that many playwrights may not have considered. I know I learned quite a bit. Enjoy!For tickets to The Rocket Men at the Synchronicity Theatre in Atlanta, GA through November 2nd, visit - https://synchrotheatre.com/plays-events/season/rocket-men/Crystal Skillman is an internationally award-winning and 4-time NYT Critics' Pick playwright for her plays CUT, GEEK, KING KIRBY, and OPEN. Other works include MARY & MAX THE MUSICAL, RAIN AND ZOE SAVE THE WORLD and THE ROCKET MEN received a National New Play Network World Premiere with Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre in Indianapolis.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/QvVDndAVgZAResources mentioned in this video -National New Play Network - https://nnpn.orgPhoenix Theatre Cultural Centre - https://www.phoenixtheatre.orgSynchronicity Theatre - https://synchrotheatre.comAngels Theatre Company - https://angelscompany.orgWebsite and Socials for Crystal Skillman -www.crystalskillman.comIG - @crystalskillmanX - @CrystalSkillmanFB - https://www.facebook.com/crystal.skillmanWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Krista Knight discussed her work as a playwright, screenwriter, and new media artist, including scripting a ride for Tokyo Disneyland, adapting Trolls for DreamWorks/Music Theatre International, writing a stage musical with the late Jill Sobule and creating a VR puppet play during the Covid lockdown.
Send us a textSEASON5, EPISODE 1!!! Wow. Hard to believe. This is an episode recorded months ago saved for this very occasion. Kudos to Cameron Scott for connecting me to John. This is a very special episode taking writing to a new level that every playwright can benefit from. John takes writing to levels I don't think we've ever tackled in past episodes, but you will have to listen to Campfire Radio Theater to fully grasp his approach. If you're not familiar with Campfire Radio Theater and are a horror fan, subscribe now. You won't be disappointed. In this conversation, we delve into the background and generation of Campfire Radio Theater and the benefit of technology, the internet, and how it's helped a dying medium and its resurgence. We discuss self-producing and current outlets, the difference between cinema and radio dramas, and the process of the latter. John also shares how to break down story and beats as well as keeping track of information in addition to formulas and what makes a slow burner. There's so much more to unpack for an episode I've been saving for a season beginner. It's playwriting in a whole other dimension. I promise you'll learn more than you expect. My number one point of advice - subscribe to Campfire Radio Theater, and as always, Enjoy!John Ballentine is a radio dramatist, producer, and screenwriter. His award-winning horror podcast, Campfire Radio Theater, which he writes, sound designs, and produces. There are over 45 episodes since Campfire Radio's launch in 2011. For the video format of this episode visit -https://youtu.be/P_TYcnBi6ZEWebsite and Socials for John Ballentine, visit https://campfireradiotheater.podbean.com/Websites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 461st episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: How do you keep your audience on STAGE with your main character? Check out our new development program at Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop: https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop AND... All my Playwriting and Actor Services are 20% off at Checkout with the coupon code: YESYOUCAN Playwriting Coaching Premiere Playwriting Coaching Script Consultations Short Play Script Consultations Script Reviews and more! Go to: https://www.manhattanrep.com Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code:" YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textIsrael López Reyes swung by the studio before the opening of his recent commission to discuss his background leading up to it and his success as an Angeleno playwright. We discuss his journey from actor to playwright, how he fell into theatre and his discovery to figuring out story and telling stories that matter. We unpack the evolution of emerging playwrights, the process and approach to character, the elements of structure, learning from the Greats, mastering the craft as well as tricks and tools, and the equation and formula to playwriting. We also touch on community as a market, raising stakes, receiving commissions, the purpose of a mentor, and writing for your "species." It's an impactful conversation that every playwright can benefit from. Enjoy!Israel López Reyes is a playwright and actor born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. He is currently a commissioned writer with the Latino Theater Company as part of the Circle of Imaginistas. In addition to The Little King of Norwalk other worka includes Queen of Califas, South Gate and The Rehabilitation of Walter. His plays have been developed with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's Black Swan Lab/Latinx Play Project, the Latinx Theatre Alliance Los Angeles, Company of Angels, LA City College New Visions New Voices, and the Latino Theater Company at the Los Angeles Theatre Center. He received his B.A. in English from Southern Methodist University and his M.F.A. in Acting from UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television. He has also taught courses in theater at UCLA School of Theater Film & Television and Los Angeles City College.For tickets to The Little King of Norwalk at the Latino Theater Company, September 25th - November 2nd, visit - https://purchase.latinotheaterco.org/EventAvailability?EventId=345&ref=bookNow&scroll=timeAndDatesTo watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/IgzoQwjQ7r0Website and Socials for Israel López Reyes -IG - @IsraelLopezreyes Websites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 460th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Playwriting in this Brave New World! Check out our new development program at Manhattan Rep: Manhattan Rep's Play Production Workshop: https://www.manhattanrep.com/workshop AND... All my Playwriting and Actor Services are 20% off at Checkout with the coupon code: YESYOUCAN Playwriting Coaching Premiere Playwriting Coaching Script Consultations Short Play Script Consultations Script Reviews and more! Go to: https://www.manhattanrep.com/ Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code:" YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Follow Joe Weinberg @OverthinkingTheatre on TikTok and Instagram. Follow The Present Stage on Instagram at @thepresentstageThe Present Stage: Conversations with Theater Writers is hosted by Dan Rubins, a theater critic for Theatermania and Slant Magazine. You can also find Dan's reviews on Cast Album Reviews and in The New Yorker's Briefly Noted column.The Present Stage supports the national nonprofit Hear Your Song. If you'd like to learn more about Hear Your Song and how to support empowering youth with serious illnesses to make their voices heard though songwriting, please visit www.hearyoursong.org
The new play "The Other Americans" was written by John Leguizamo, and stars Leguizamo as a laundromat owner in Queens who is grappling with secrets and trying to keep his business afloat. Things come to a head when his son, Nick, played by Trey Santiago-Hudson, returns from a stay at a mental health facility. Leguizamo and Santiago-Hudson discuss the play, which is running at the Public Theater through October 19.
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 459th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: The Wow Moment Revisited! Go to Manhattanrep.com! All my Playwriting and Actor Services are 20% off at Checkout with the coupon code: YESYOUCAN Playwriting Coaching Premiere Playwriting Coaching Script Consultations Short Play Script Consultations Script Reviews and more! Go to: https://www.manhattanrep.com/ Also, Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Now 20% off with the Code:" YESYOUCAN Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
In this episode, we explore three essential books on the craft of playwriting: Letters to a Young Playwright by Adam Szymkowicz, Playwriting with Purpose and Writing Adaptations and Translations for the Stage by Jacqueline Goldfinger. The discussion covers practical advice for early-career and emerging playwrights, from developing characters and writing dialogue to adapting works for stage performance, all enriched with insider tips and real-world insights from award-winning dramatists. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From award-winning writer Sarah Schulman, a longtime social activist and outspoken critic of the Israeli war on Gaza, comes The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity (Penguin, 2025). This book is a brilliant examination of the inherent psychological and social challenges to solidarity movements, and what that means for the future For those who seek to combat injustice, solidarity with the oppressed is one of the highest ideals, yet it does not come without complication. In this searing yet uplifting book, award-winning writer and cultural critic Sarah Schulman delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of solidarity to provide a new vision for what it means to engage in this work—and why it matters. To grapple with solidarity, Schulman writes, we must recognize its inherent fantasies. Those being oppressed dream of relief, that a bystander will intervene though it may not seem to be in their immediate interest to do so, and that the oppressor will be called out and punished. Those standing in solidarity with the oppressed are occluded by a different fantasy: that their intervention is effective, that it will not cost them, and that they will be rewarded with friendship and thanks. Neither is always the case, and yet in order to realize our full potential as human beings in relation with others, we must continue to pursue action towards these shared goals. Within this framework, Schulman examines a range of case studies, from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain, to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s, to the current wave of campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza, and her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male dominated culture industries. Drawing parallels between queer, Palestinian, feminist, and artistic struggles for justice, Schulman challenges the traditional notion of solidarity as a simple union of equals, arguing that in today's world of globalized power structures, true solidarity requires the collaboration of bystanders and conflicted perpetrators with the excluded and oppressed. That action comes at a cost, and is not always effective. And yet without it we sentence ourselves to a world without progressive change towards visions of liberation. By turns challenging, inspiring, pragmatic, and poetic, The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity provides a much-needed path for how we can work together to create a more just, more equitable present and future. Sarah Schulman is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, nonfiction writer, and AIDS historian. Her books include The Gentrification of the Mind, Conflict Is Not Abuse, and Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987–1993, and the novels The Cosmopolitans and Maggie Terry. Schulman's honors include a Fulbright in Judaic Studies, a Guggenheim in Playwriting, and honors from Lambda Literary, the Publishing Triangle, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the American Library Association, and others. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New York, Harper's Magazine, The Atlantic, The Nation, The New Republic, The New York Times, and The Guardian. Schulman holds an endowed chair in creative writing at Northwestern University and is on the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
From award-winning writer Sarah Schulman, a longtime social activist and outspoken critic of the Israeli war on Gaza, comes The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity (Penguin, 2025). This book is a brilliant examination of the inherent psychological and social challenges to solidarity movements, and what that means for the future For those who seek to combat injustice, solidarity with the oppressed is one of the highest ideals, yet it does not come without complication. In this searing yet uplifting book, award-winning writer and cultural critic Sarah Schulman delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of solidarity to provide a new vision for what it means to engage in this work—and why it matters. To grapple with solidarity, Schulman writes, we must recognize its inherent fantasies. Those being oppressed dream of relief, that a bystander will intervene though it may not seem to be in their immediate interest to do so, and that the oppressor will be called out and punished. Those standing in solidarity with the oppressed are occluded by a different fantasy: that their intervention is effective, that it will not cost them, and that they will be rewarded with friendship and thanks. Neither is always the case, and yet in order to realize our full potential as human beings in relation with others, we must continue to pursue action towards these shared goals. Within this framework, Schulman examines a range of case studies, from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain, to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s, to the current wave of campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza, and her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male dominated culture industries. Drawing parallels between queer, Palestinian, feminist, and artistic struggles for justice, Schulman challenges the traditional notion of solidarity as a simple union of equals, arguing that in today's world of globalized power structures, true solidarity requires the collaboration of bystanders and conflicted perpetrators with the excluded and oppressed. That action comes at a cost, and is not always effective. And yet without it we sentence ourselves to a world without progressive change towards visions of liberation. By turns challenging, inspiring, pragmatic, and poetic, The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity provides a much-needed path for how we can work together to create a more just, more equitable present and future. Sarah Schulman is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, nonfiction writer, and AIDS historian. Her books include The Gentrification of the Mind, Conflict Is Not Abuse, and Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987–1993, and the novels The Cosmopolitans and Maggie Terry. Schulman's honors include a Fulbright in Judaic Studies, a Guggenheim in Playwriting, and honors from Lambda Literary, the Publishing Triangle, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the American Library Association, and others. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New York, Harper's Magazine, The Atlantic, The Nation, The New Republic, The New York Times, and The Guardian. Schulman holds an endowed chair in creative writing at Northwestern University and is on the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/lgbtq-studies
From award-winning writer Sarah Schulman, a longtime social activist and outspoken critic of the Israeli war on Gaza, comes The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity (Penguin, 2025). This book is a brilliant examination of the inherent psychological and social challenges to solidarity movements, and what that means for the future For those who seek to combat injustice, solidarity with the oppressed is one of the highest ideals, yet it does not come without complication. In this searing yet uplifting book, award-winning writer and cultural critic Sarah Schulman delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of solidarity to provide a new vision for what it means to engage in this work—and why it matters. To grapple with solidarity, Schulman writes, we must recognize its inherent fantasies. Those being oppressed dream of relief, that a bystander will intervene though it may not seem to be in their immediate interest to do so, and that the oppressor will be called out and punished. Those standing in solidarity with the oppressed are occluded by a different fantasy: that their intervention is effective, that it will not cost them, and that they will be rewarded with friendship and thanks. Neither is always the case, and yet in order to realize our full potential as human beings in relation with others, we must continue to pursue action towards these shared goals. Within this framework, Schulman examines a range of case studies, from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain, to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s, to the current wave of campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza, and her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male dominated culture industries. Drawing parallels between queer, Palestinian, feminist, and artistic struggles for justice, Schulman challenges the traditional notion of solidarity as a simple union of equals, arguing that in today's world of globalized power structures, true solidarity requires the collaboration of bystanders and conflicted perpetrators with the excluded and oppressed. That action comes at a cost, and is not always effective. And yet without it we sentence ourselves to a world without progressive change towards visions of liberation. By turns challenging, inspiring, pragmatic, and poetic, The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity provides a much-needed path for how we can work together to create a more just, more equitable present and future. Sarah Schulman is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, nonfiction writer, and AIDS historian. Her books include The Gentrification of the Mind, Conflict Is Not Abuse, and Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987–1993, and the novels The Cosmopolitans and Maggie Terry. Schulman's honors include a Fulbright in Judaic Studies, a Guggenheim in Playwriting, and honors from Lambda Literary, the Publishing Triangle, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the American Library Association, and others. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New York, Harper's Magazine, The Atlantic, The Nation, The New Republic, The New York Times, and The Guardian. Schulman holds an endowed chair in creative writing at Northwestern University and is on the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics
From award-winning writer Sarah Schulman, a longtime social activist and outspoken critic of the Israeli war on Gaza, comes The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity (Penguin, 2025). This book is a brilliant examination of the inherent psychological and social challenges to solidarity movements, and what that means for the future For those who seek to combat injustice, solidarity with the oppressed is one of the highest ideals, yet it does not come without complication. In this searing yet uplifting book, award-winning writer and cultural critic Sarah Schulman delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of solidarity to provide a new vision for what it means to engage in this work—and why it matters. To grapple with solidarity, Schulman writes, we must recognize its inherent fantasies. Those being oppressed dream of relief, that a bystander will intervene though it may not seem to be in their immediate interest to do so, and that the oppressor will be called out and punished. Those standing in solidarity with the oppressed are occluded by a different fantasy: that their intervention is effective, that it will not cost them, and that they will be rewarded with friendship and thanks. Neither is always the case, and yet in order to realize our full potential as human beings in relation with others, we must continue to pursue action towards these shared goals. Within this framework, Schulman examines a range of case studies, from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain, to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s, to the current wave of campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza, and her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male dominated culture industries. Drawing parallels between queer, Palestinian, feminist, and artistic struggles for justice, Schulman challenges the traditional notion of solidarity as a simple union of equals, arguing that in today's world of globalized power structures, true solidarity requires the collaboration of bystanders and conflicted perpetrators with the excluded and oppressed. That action comes at a cost, and is not always effective. And yet without it we sentence ourselves to a world without progressive change towards visions of liberation. By turns challenging, inspiring, pragmatic, and poetic, The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity provides a much-needed path for how we can work together to create a more just, more equitable present and future. Sarah Schulman is a novelist, playwright, screenwriter, nonfiction writer, and AIDS historian. Her books include The Gentrification of the Mind, Conflict Is Not Abuse, and Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987–1993, and the novels The Cosmopolitans and Maggie Terry. Schulman's honors include a Fulbright in Judaic Studies, a Guggenheim in Playwriting, and honors from Lambda Literary, the Publishing Triangle, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists, the American Library Association, and others. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New York, Harper's Magazine, The Atlantic, The Nation, The New Republic, The New York Times, and The Guardian. Schulman holds an endowed chair in creative writing at Northwestern University and is on the advisory board of Jewish Voice for Peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textFilmmaker turned playwright, David Kohner Zuckerman, dropped into Playwright's Spotlight to talk about the World Premiere of his play Parallel Process. In this interview, we talk unpack his journey from film to stage and how it affect his writing, his approach to naturalism and honesty to his writing, and how his acting and directing applied to his writing. We also touched on his collaborating with his cast, how rehearsals affected his structure, and being a first time playwright. We end on the struggles of unanticipated recasting, the logistics of Equity, approaching naturalism and realism as a playwright, and pacing on the page.As always, it's a discussion that touch on a new subject I think everyone will benefit from. Enjoy!David Kohner Zuckerman is a playwright and veteran filmmaker whose credits include A Perfect Christmas, Strictly Sexual, and Chump Change. The World Premiere of his play Parallel Process opens at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles September 19th and runs through October 26th.For tickets to Parallel Process at the Odyssey Theater visit - https://www.parallelprocesstheplay.com/To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/qbxPgofKxs4Websites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 458th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: OH MY GOD, WE ARE GOING TO TALK ABOUT ACTION AND EVENTS ONCE AGAIN! Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre Special Back to School Sale! All my Playwriting Services are 20% at manhattanrep.com with the Coupon Code at checkout: YESYOUCAN Don't miss out and get some feedback and help, and SAVE 20%! Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. (And in this sale 20% off!) Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My standard Playwriting Coaching! Write a play in 10 coaching sessions! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 457th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: How to Start a Play SPECIAL PROMOTION ON: MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. WITH A DISCOUNT CODE below at Checkout - Save 20%! IWRITEPLAYS Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep with videos from our productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre The Playwright's Reading Room on Zoom starts 9/10! Come develop your play with me and some of Manhattan Rep's best actors! Book it at the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textPlaywright Stuart Brown streamed into Playwright's Spotlight for a second time after technical difficulties with sound, but I hope delved a little deeper this time around. We discuss the Connecticut Theatre Market, being a critic and a playwright and how the former affected the latter, honesty as a critic, and advice to theatre companies on getting critics in seats. We also explore how being a critic helped his writing when he began to pursue playwriting, keeping your audience engaged, implementing twists and what makes a good one, and what makes a three dimensional character. We wrap things up learning curves and openness to making improvements, the success of the Questions game in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, his approach to Murder Mystery and keeping it simple, and writing a red herring and whether or not there are rules. We close it up discussing his online Broadway radio station - SoundsofBroadway.com. It's a question filled conversation with a plethora of information. Enjoy!Stuart Brown is an award-winning Connecticut playwright whose 10-Minute works have been staged in his home state as well as California, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas and via the British podcast, Theatrical Shenanigans. He is a theater critic with the Outer Critics Circle and the Connecticut Critics Circle and also runs the 24/7 online Broadway radio station, SoundsofBroadway.com, featuring the best from Off-Broadway, Broadway, and London stages. Plays included The Suitcase, House Hunted, and his newest play Lady Jigsaw received a staged reading at the Square One Theatre in Stratford, CT on July 10 and will lead the Chestnut Playhouse Theater's 5th annual Playwriting Festival on September 5th. For tickets to Lady Jigsaw at the Chestnut Street Playhouse on Sept. 5, visit -https://www.chestnutstreetplayhouse.org/For tickets to an evening of Stu's nine 10-minute plays at The Arts at Angeloria's on Sept. 12, visit, https://www.theartsatangelorias.com/To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/R5wJb0RrRO0Websites and Socials for Stuart Brown -http://stuartjbrown.com/IG: @stuartjbrown_authorWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 456th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Play Creation Takeaways from 20 Years of Manhattan Rep! Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre The Playwright's Reading Room on Zoom starts 9/10! Come develop your play with me and some of Manhattan Rep's best actors! Book it at the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Sister Bliss started out DJing on London's gay club scene, before co-founding Faithless in 1995 and became one of the few women of her generation to help shape UK dance culture. Faithless have sold more than 20 million albums and amassed close to a billion streams. 30 years on from the hit dance anthem Insomnia, she joins Nuala McGovern to discuss their latest album - Champion Sound.Too many recommendations, not enough implementation - these are the findings of the latest report into maternity services in England, from the Health Services Safety Investigations Body. It has pressed pause on its own investigation to make way for a new government rapid review to be led by Baroness Valerie Amos. So why are the findings of multiple reports and reviews not yet leading to change? Nuala finds out with BBC Social Affairs correspondent Michael Buchanan, and maternity campaigner Emily Barley, who lost her own daughter due to maternity failings in 2022.Winner of the Women's Prize for Playwriting 2022, Karis Kelly's play Consumed is described as a pitch-black and twisted comedy of dysfunctional family dynamics, generational trauma and national boundaries set in Northern Ireland. Currently well-received on stage at the Edinburgh Festival, Karis explains why she chose to focus her story on the lives of four generations of women from the same family.You might love your local river, but enough to marry it? One woman felt so strongly about protecting the River Avon in Bristol that she took part in a wedding to it...she is part of a group of women bathers and activists who want the watercourse to have the right to be free from pollution. Megan Trump, or Mrs Meg Avon as she is now known, and Charlotte Sawyer are in the Woman's Hour studio.Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Kirsty Starkey
Send us a textPlaywright. Screenplay Writer, and Novelist Lawrence C. Connolly streamed into Playwright's Spotlight and, as always, we touched base on many topics not covered in previous episodes. It never ceases to amaze me. In this discussion, we delve into adapting a novel and the allegory of Frankenstein, staging multiple locations on stage, the process of outlining a five-act play, approaching cross-talk amongst multiple characters, and the musicality of dialogue. We also we unpack flow state. the magic writing, staging and graphics on the stage as well as letting dialogue drive the dialogue and how to eliminate parentheticals. We wrap with the evolution of his writing career, the Doorway Effect, the Pittsburgh Market, and his approach of lighting and sound on the page. It's just another insightful episode where you'll walk away with more playwriting knowledge. Enjoy!Lawrence Connolly is a novelist, screenwriter, and playwright. He is a writer on the podcast Mystery Theatre by Prime Stage Theatre which premiered his adaptation of Mary Shelly's Frankenstein, and he was recently commissioned a play based on the life and works of Edgar Allan Poe, opens in November 2025 at Pittsburgh's New Hazelett Theatre.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/cjzOiW27laAResources mentioned in this episode - Pittsburgh Public Theater - https://ppt.orgWebsites and Socials for Lawrence Connolly -https://lawrencecconnolly.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/LawrenceCConnollyIG - @lawrence_c_connollyWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 455th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Stories from 20 Years of Manhattan Rep! Check out Manhattan Rep's INSTAGRAM for more on Manhattan Rep's Celebration of 20 Years, with videos from out productions and so much more! @manhattanrepertorytheatre The Playwright's Reading Room on Zoom starts 9/10! Come develop your play with me and some of Manhattan Rep's best actors! Book it at the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Nev Fountain is an award-winning writer, chiefly known for his work on the BBC sketch show Dead Ringers in both TV and radio incarnations. He has also contributed to many other programs, including Have I Got News for You and Newzoids. He is a principal gag writer for satirical magazine Private Eye and contributes to every issue. He first came to write for Doctor Who when he script-edited the BBC online story "Death Comes to Time" in 2001, and has gone on to write some of Big Finish's most popular audios, including "The Kingmaker" and "Peri and the Piscon Paradox." His books include The Mervyn Stone Mysteries, The Fan Who Knew too Much, and its sequel, Lies and Dolls, which was released in July. Nev talks with me about how he got his start writing radio comedy, the challenges of writing comedy even about very serious events, writing for various forms and media, leaving room to be surprised as you're writing, and more. Episode breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 04:02 Teachers encouraged Nev; family humor shaped his view. 08:21 Comedy influences: The Young Ones, Blackadder, Hitchhiker's Guide. 12:27 Breaking into radio comedy. 16:03 Playwriting taught Nev what makes audiences laugh—live. 20:22 Writing comedy about tragic events; satire offers relief and perspective. 24:23 Dead Ringers' hiatus, revival, and Jon Culshaw's Tom Baker calls. 28:47 Sketches with Ozzy Osbourne, behind-the-scenes stories from TV comedy. 33:46 Nev's serendipitous first Doctor Who project, "Death Comes to Time." 39:23 The process and impact of "Death Comes to Time" explained. 46:31 Challenges and expectations of writing “big” stories in franchises. 52:18 Emphasizing medium-specific storytelling; novels, radio, TV all differ. 58:14 Enjoying creative surprises; writing unfolds beyond outlines or plans. Want more? Here are handy playlists with all my previous interviews with guests in writing, theatre, and Doctor Who. If you enjoyed our conversation, I hope you'll share it with a friend. Check out the full show notes--with videos of Nev's work and links to his books—at fycuriosity.com, and connect with me and fellow creatives on Substack. Please leave a review for this episode—it's really easy and will only take a minute, and it really helps me reach new listeners. Thanks! If you're tired of waiting for “someday”—which is NOT a day of the week—to get unstuck and step toward your creative dream, we should talk. Https://fyc.quest/Contact
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 454th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Developing Your Plays! The Playwright's Reading Room on Zoom starts 9/10! Come develop your play with me and some of Manhattan Rep's best actors! Book it at the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 453rd episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: Constant and Never-Ending Improvement - Revisited! The Playwright's Reading Room on Zoom starts 9/10! Only 2 out of 4 slots left! Come develop your play with me and some of Manhattan Rep's best actors! Book it at the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room Book a SCRIPT CONSULTATION - Get Productive Feedback and Next Steps! https://www.manhattanrep.com/script-consultation Book a SHORT PLAY SCRIPT CONSULTATION: https://www.manhattanrep.com/short-script-consultation MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A year long program where I help you write a perfect play, and teach you everything you need to know about Playwriting and connecting your plays to theatres and producers. Book it here: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere My Fantastic Playwriting Book on Amazon! The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Let us help you self-produce your best play in New York City or anywhere in the world. Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com
Send us a textAngelica Cheri swung by Playwright's Spotlight after leaving the rehearsals of her Broadway play Wanted only to jump into the rehearsals for the West Coast Premiere of her play Burta Burta. She was wiling to share her insights of the craft. We delve into the rehearsal process, approaching rewrites and the importance of dramatic truth, finding opportunities and landing an agent, changes to pieces from a thesis to premieres to publication. We also touch on the trick of raising stakes, the structure of a song in musical theatre, magical realism and laying breadcrumbs, achieving foreshadowing, playwriting vs musical theatre, and how analytics can rename a play. We wrap it up discussing the struggles with the business of playwriting as well as with the craft itself, the differences between structure vs form, approaching character and the math in human emotion, and, finally, creative license. It's a talk chock full of nuggets of theatrical knowledge that I took a lot from. Enjoy.For tickets to the West Coast premiere of her play Berta Berta that which runs through August 25th at the Echo Theater Company in Los Angeles, visit https://www.echotheatercompany.com/berta-berta.Angelica Chéri is a playwright, bookwriter, lyricist, screenwriter and poet. Her plays include Phenomenal Woman, Maya Angelou; The Seeds of Abraham; The Sting of White Roses; Crowndation; and The Wiring & the Switches. She and collaborator Ross Baum received the Richard Rodgers Award for their musical Wanted (formerly titled Gun & Powder), which is heading to Broadway next season. She received her BA in Theater from UCLA, MFA in Playwriting from Columbia University and MFA in Musical Theater Writing from NYU.To watch the video format of this episode, visit https://youtu.be/ul3ThJixBRkLinks to resources mentioned in this episode - Playwright's Bill of Rights - https://www.dramatistsguild.com/rightsThe Richard Rogers Award - https://www.artsandletters.org/rodgers-awardThe O'Neill - https://www.theoneill.org/monte-cristo-awardNational Alliance for Musical Theatre - https://namt.orgCleveland Arts Prize - https://clevelandartsprize.orgTheatrical Works Worldwide - https://www.theatricalrights.comWebsite and Socials for Angelica Cheri -www.angelicacheri.comIG - @angleicacheriFB - https://www.facebook.com/angelicacheriWebsites and socials for James Elden, Punk Monkey Productions and Playwright's SpotlightPunk Monkey Productions - www.punkmonkeyproductions.comPLAY Noir -www.playnoir.comPLAY Noir Anthology –www.punkmonkeyproductions.com/contact.htmlJames Elden -Twitter - @jameseldensauerIG - @alakardrakeFB - fb.com/jameseldensauerPunk Monkey Productions and PLAY Noir - Twitter - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoirla IG - @punkmonkeyprods - @playnoir_la FB - fb.com/playnoir - fb.com/punkmonkeyproductionsPlaywright's Spotlight -Twitter - @wrightlightpod IG - @playwrights_spotlightPlaywriting services through LACPFest - www.lacpfest.comSupport the show
How does an idea become a musical? How do you write both a play and a musical soundtrack at the same time? How does a musical that you've finally written wind up on a real stage with real actors?Kaylee Killingsworth and Kenady Sean have answers.In this episode, Emmeline sits down with two-thirds of the creative team behind Beyond Perfection, a new musical about our human desire for perfection and our love-hate relationship with reality. Just days before their New York City debut, Kenady and Kaylee get candid about the winding path to the stage, from initial table reads to a complete script revision. They also discuss the value of perseverance, the fine line between constructive criticism and debilitating criticism, and how this version of Beyond Perfection is, without a doubt, their best one yet. Plus, hear a sneak peek of the musical itself!To learn more about Beyond Perfection: The Musical, visit the official website or follow the musical on Instagram. To learn more about Kenady Sean and her upcoming projects, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram. To follow Kaylee's musical and creative journey, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram.For behind-the-scenes information and more about Journey of an Artist, visit the Journey of Series official webpage, or follow Emmeline on social media at @EmmelineMusic.
Katie checks in with playwright (N/A, Tail! Spin!, Commander, Santa for President), screenwriter (Dark Waters), and former Congressional aide, Mario Correa.
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