Podcasts about playwriting

Send us a textBroadway marketer turned playwright Cameron Scott came onto Playwright's Spotlight after I received his submission to PLAY Noir to talk about his later-in-life start to playwriting. In this conversation, we delve into what the definition of a writer is, a play being a living thing, audio plays vs stage plays and a play's transition from audio to stage, and setting time aside and finding opportunities to write. We also discuss staging in unconventional locations, being a minimalist playwright, overnight success, and the new trend of streaming Broadway shows. It's great, energetic conversation that proves it's never too late to start. Just write. Enjoy!Cameron Scott has worked with Broadway's top producers to create brand campaigns for well over 100 productions including 17 Tony Award-winning Best Plays, Best Musicals, and Best Revivals. He has recently turned to writing plays of his own. Since the fall of 2022, he has had plays produced from the coasts of California to Connecticut, among them a Best in Festival winner at Wilmington Drama League and the winning play from Delaware at ESTAFest 2023. He has had work published in multiple anthologies including an excerpt from his play Uphill which was published in The Best Men's Stage Monologues 2023 by Smith & Kraus. His latest audio drama West PalmReaders appeared internationally on the Apple Podcasts Charts in 49 countries last summer, including multiple #1's in Drama and thirteen Top 10's in Drama, including in the USA.  Mr. Scott has worked with professional and amateur theater companies alike such as Legacy Theatre in Connecticut, The Road Theatre Company in North Hollywood and Rhode Island Stage Ensemble.  Other plays include Forty Years Kings first produced in Delaware last February and a new audio drama Happ's Last Tape to be produced and to debut this October. To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/BHb_NvBv-D8Links to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - The Road Theatre Company - https://roadtheatre.orgNew Play Exchange - https://newplayexchange.org/get-startedWebsites and Socials for Cameron Scott -https://www.amazon.com/Best-Mens-Stage-Monologues-2023/dp/1575259737West Palm Readers -https://campfireradiotheater.podbean.com/e/west-palm-readers/That Day is Coming, Everyday is Coming -https://open.spotify.com/episode/0COYxfxyXpdTnK3GxULtoR?go=1&sp_cid=5b49ce7785316807430e118f8097c8c2&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktopWebsites 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

Del Shores joins the Exchange along with Gwen Overland, artistic director of the Camelot Theatre in Talent.

Send us a textReturning playwright Faye Widjaja and her cohort, Sohoni Sawant, dropped by the studio after having streamed in from her original interview just over two years ago to discuss the journey and evolution of her play A Minor Inconvenience from the Lenaea High School Theatre Festival to the Hollywood Fringe. It's an insightful journey I hope every playwright at any stage can pull a nugget of knowledge.  We explore their journey from the original production and obstacles at Lenaea to the 2025 Hollywood Fringe, from where it was then and to where it is now. We delve into grants from Broadway Licensing to a scholarship from the Hollywood Fringe, the evolution of the play between Lenaea and Fringe, the difficulties of writing a "timed" show, embracing different versions, the simplicity of theatre, and marketing a short run. Everyone can learn a little something from this conversation. Let us know what you pulled from it. Enjoy!For tickets to A Minor Inconvenience at the Hollywood Fringe, visit - https://www.hollywoodfringe.org/projects/9750?tab=ticketsTo watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/W5re9eFvJ-gLinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - Lenaea High School Theatre Festival - https://www.lenaea.orgBroadway Licensing - https://broadwaylicensing.comHollywood Fringe - https://www.hollywoodfringe.orgThe Actor's Company - https://www.theactorscompanyla.com/the-other-spaceSocials for Faye Widjaja and Sohoni Savant -IG - @aminorinconvenienceIG - @sourlesspicturesIG - @fayewidjajaIG - @sohani.sawantWebsites 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

Send us a textJohn Farmanesh-Bocca swung by The Playwright's Spotlight to talk about his latest Shakespeare adaptation Lear Redux: A Quantum Fantasia. Throughout this conversation we discuss his journey into becoming an adaptive playwrights of the Classics, how he breaks them down, unpacks them, and the puts them back together to serve a modern audience without losing the original story and, sometimes, the original language. We discuss how much preparation he does before moving into collaboration and the use of conversation, his use of archetypes, writing whimsy, and how his acting and dance classes helped make him a better writer. We close on the current accessibility of theatre and the importance of advocacy for the arts. John's charm and passion shine through out this interview. I think you'll walk away with a lot. Enjoy.For tickets to Lear Redux: A Quantum Fantasia at the Odyssey Theater in Los Angeles through July 13th, visit  https://odysseytheatre.com/whats-on/lear-redux/John Farmanesh-Bocca is a multi-award-winning Iranian-American theater director, choreographer and playwrite who is best known in the U.S. and abroad for his modern adaptations of ancient theatrical works. He is the founder of the award-winning Not Man Apart – Physical Theatre Ensemble, ranked by Backstage in 2014 as one of the “13 most innovative physical theater companies in the world,” for which he now serves as emeritus director. Some of his award-winning physical theater adaptations include - Pericles Redux, Wish I Had A Sylvia Plath, Titus Redux, As/Is, Hercules Furens, and Tempest Redux. To view the video format of this episode, visit the link below - https://youtu.be/OahUQhbBRVMLinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode -Not Man Apart - https://www.notmanapart.comRuskin Group Theatre - https://www.ruskingrouptheatre.comThe New American Theatre - https://www.newamericantheatre.comWORD Theatre - https://wordtheatre.orgSocials for John Farmanesh-Bocca's companies -IG - @notmanapartIG - @newamericantheatreIG - @ wordtheatreIG - @odysseetheatreWebsites 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

SummaryIn this episode of the Johnson City Living Podcast, host Colin Johnson engages with Anne G'fellers-Mason, the program manager at the McKinney Center in Jonesborough, who runs the StoryTown Radio Show. They discuss Anne's deep roots in Johnson City, her passion for storytelling, and the importance of preserving local history through oral narratives. The conversation explores the growth of Jonesborough as a cultural hub, the process of playwriting, and the significance of community engagement in the arts. Anne shares insights on the challenges and joys of storytelling, as well as advice for aspiring playwrights. The episode concludes with a look at upcoming events and the future of storytelling in the region.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Johnson City Living Podcast00:57 Growing Up in Johnson City02:56 The Art of Storytelling06:02 Jonesborough: The Storytelling Capital09:12 The StoryTown Radio Show12:14 Theater and Playwriting in Jonesborough14:58 Researching and Writing Plays17:59 The Jackson Theater and Local Arts21:10 Community Events and Growth in Jonesborough24:07 Collecting Stories from the Community27:04 The Future of Podcasting and Storytelling29:48 Closing Thoughts and Future Goalshttps://mckinneycenter.com/storytown

Stephanie lists one of her crowning achievements as the Executive Director of the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence as being raising funds and planning the replacement of their shelter. “One of the most fun things I did was…drive the first bull dozer into the building.” Imagine the image – a literal bull dozer driven by this bull dozer of a lady.

Jordan and Leticia interview Canadian playwright, director, and educator Djanet Sears, hearing about her unique approach to dramaturgy and an in-depth look at Black theatre in Canada.

Send us a textLongtime-listening playwright Brad McEntire streamed into the Spotlight to discuss his experience and approach to the craft. We discuss the exercises and lessons from studying under Will Power at Southern Methodist University and the Dallas Theatre Center, playing with the rhythm of dialogue, what beginning playwrights don't do or practice, and whether or not you can achieve impossible stage directions with a small budget. We also delve into his background as a literary manager, his process of one-person shows and the difference between solo performances and personal stories, the one-person structure as well as playing with different structures, tackling solo long-form improv, staging your own one-person show and finding opportunities for them. We wrap things up with the flaws of rewriting on stage and his podcasts - The Cultivated Playwright and Brad McEntire Plays and - and the difficulty of monetization. Brad's energy is contagious and his insight is valuable. Enjoy!Brad McEntire is a playwright, solo performer, and stage director. He is the author of more than a dozen plays, including Que Sera Giant Monster, I Brought Home a Chupacabra, Dinosaur and Robot Stop a Train, Raspberry Fizz, Langdon the Seasonal Barista, I Have Angered a Great God and The Yeti in the Airport Lounge among others. He is a satellite member of The Playwrights' Center and studied playwriting with Will Power as part of the Dallas Playwrights Workshop at Southern Methodist University. He has toured his original one-person shows Cyrano A-Go-Go, Chop, Robert's Eternal Goldfish and The Beast of Hyperborea performing in venues and festivals all over North America. Since 2008 he has served as artistic director of the small-batch theatre company Audacity Theatre Lab, and in 2015, McEntire served as the first theatre-artist-in-residence at the Kathy George Indie Artist Residency in Ashford, Oregon. He holds a B.F.A. from the College of Santa Fe and a M.A. from Texas Woman's University. He has a YouTube channel where he talks about theatre, including playwriting and solo performance.To watch the video format of this interview, visit - https://youtu.be/m1U8hBL9S50Links to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - Playwrights' Center - https://pwcenter.orgJerome Fellowship - https://pwcenter.org/programs/jerome-fellowships/McKnight Fellowship - https://pwcenter.org/programs/mcknight-fellowship-in-playwriting/Dallas Theater Center - https://dallastheatercenter.orgUndermain Theatre - https://www.undermain.org/New York City Fringe - https://frigid.nyc/new-york-city-fringe/Edinburgh Fringe - https://www.edfringe.comMinnesota Fringe - https://minnesotafringe.orgHollywood Fringe - https://www.hollywoodfringe.org/Elgin Fringe Festival - https://www.elginfringefestival.comWebsite and socials for Brad McEntire -www.bradmcentireplays.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/BradMcEntireIG - @dribblefunkAmazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brad-McEntire/author/B00IX2B7P4?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueSupport the show

In honor of Poetry month we invited local author and poet Joshua C. Robinson. If you are interested in trading heir books we have them available at out library here in Longmont Colorado.Joshua's Bio:Joshua C. Robinson (They/Them) received degrees in Playwriting and Poetry from the University of Missouri; they hold a Master's of Arts Management from Columbia College Chicago. They have performed nationally and locally. Their work is featured in a multitude of journals and stages, New City, The Maneater, Writer's Block Zine, and more. They survived a year and a half of non consecutive homelessness. Their memoir “Homeless With God,” has yet to win any awards, but there's still time. They would like to take themselves less seriously someday. They would also like to take a nap. They love you, and they mean it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jordan and Leticia interview arts journalist and playwright Kelundra Smith about the cultural landscape of theatre criticism and what it means to tell authentic Black stories.

Send us a textRickerby Hinds swung by the Playwright's Spotlight prior to the premiere of his "last' play. We unpack various topics including Hip Hop Theatre, being a self-taught playwright, writing without arrogance, earning your audience, and the use of poetry, spoken word, rap, and movement and dance. We also discuss lessons in editing, metaphors and similes, achieving layers, character introductions, unwritten dialogue, and what choreography on the page looks like. We wrap it up with his venue and purpose at Riverside Studios, commissioning a play, the rehearsal process, and his approach to developing characters. Similarities in look and sound to Denzel Washington, I half expected Denzel to bust out and say, "It's actually me, Denzel." I also had the opportunity to catch this play prior to this episode dropping. If you're in the LA area, I highly recommend checking it out. It's a definite crowd pleaser with lots of audience participation. Even if you can't see the production, I'm sure you'll be charmed by this episode. Enjoy.For tickets to The Last Play By Rickerby Hinds, visit - https://www.latinotheaterco.org/thelastplayRickerby Hinds is one of the pioneers of Hip-Hop Theater. He received his MFA in playwriting from UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television where he was awarded the coveted Audrey Skirball-Kenis Award for best play for an unprecedented two years. He is the past chair of the Department of Theater Film & Digital Production at the University of California, Riverside and founding director of Riverside Studios. He is a Fulbright Fellow, and his work has toured Romania, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Turkey and his native Honduras, as well as numerous venues throughout the US. His play Dreamscape received a record six 2016 Los Angeles NAACP nominations, winning three, including “Best Director.”To view the video format of this episode, visit the link below - https://youtu.be/nRqv3XWmcAgLinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - Latino Theatre Company - https://www.latinotheaterco.orgUniversity at California, Riverside - https://www.ucr.eduWebsite and Socials for Rickerby Hinds -https://profiles.ucr.edu/app/home/profile/rickerbyFB - https://www.facebook.com/kerby.hinds/IG - @rickerby.hindsWebsites 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

Alexis Sakellaris is a triple citizen and grew up between Europe and the US, always singing, acting, dancing their way from place to place :)They are currently performing their original queer musical comedy show A STAN IS BORN! at various theatre festivals in the UK.Alexis just finished a US tour and a run at Soho Theatre London with comedian Matt Rogers, supporting his show “Have You Heard Of Christmas?” as a featured vocalist.Madison Cole (any pronouns) is a an award-winning theatre and film maker based in London. They have a dual B.A. in English and Theatre Studies from Yale University with concentrations in Playwriting and Directing, respectively. Recently, they directed the sold-out world premiere of Daughters of the Pirate Queen at the National Concert Hall of Ireland.​Recent directorial projects include A Stan is Born at Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024, as well as Edward II at the Camden Fringe Festival 2024, both of which received London transfers. She also directed her original play Inferna in its world premiere at Riverside Studios in January 2025, to sold-out audiences.​Assistant work includes Bronco Billy: The Musical at the Charing Cross Theatre, The Worst Witch at the Tower Theatre, and Sisters at the Jack Studio Theatre. They also recently worked as 1st AD to award-winning cinematographer Steven Fierberg on the film The Spirit Lock, scheduled to release in late 2024.

Author Sarah Schulman talks with Emmy Winner Charlotte Robinson host of OUTTAKE VOICES™ about her new book “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity” published by Penguin Random House. Schulman is a longtime social activist from the fight for abortion rights in post-Franco Spain to NYC's AIDS activism in the 1990s to campus protest movements against Israel's war on Gaza and beyond bringing her own experience growing up as a queer female artist in male-dominated culture industries. In these challenging times as our democracy is at a moral crossroad, this must-read book couldn't be more timely. 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 Sarah 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. Here in America with this new administration we're beginning to understand and realize that the only people that will save us from this authoritarian regime are ourselves. Drawing parallels between queer, Jewish, 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. Currently in America we are learning that action comes at a cost and it is not always as effective as we would like it to be but doing nothing is far more dangerous. We talked to Sarah about these current issues and her inspiration for writing “The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity”.  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.  For More Info… LISTEN: 600+ LGBTQ Chats @OUTTAKE VOICES

In this episode, Leticia and Jordan interview Whitney White about her journey in theatre, her artistic craft, and the potentials and possibilities of Black theatre.

Send us a textJust over the week before the World Premiere of her first play celebrating the Centennial celebration of Coral Gables, Florida, multiple Emmy-winning journalist June Thomson Morris beamed into the Playwright's Spotlight. In this interview, we discuss attempting one's first play, overcoming obstacles, and experiencing your work come to life for the first time. We also explore how journalism nurtures playwriting, learning from Masterclass vs Academia, narrowing framing and foregoing storylines, June's family story and its influence of her play, transitioning form a screenplay to a stage play, and character description and providing intention. It's an inspiring and motivational discussion that proves life doesn't end when one pursuit ends and that all of our aspirations are always within reach. Enjoy!For tickets to the VIP Centennial Celebration visit - https://site.coralgableschamber.org/atlas/events/973263/detailsFor tickets to Greetings from Paradise at the Miracle Theatre, visit - https://purchase.actorsplayhouse.org/EventAvailability?EventId=1801June Thomson Morris is a playwright, multiple Emmy-winning journalist, storyteller, and Miami native. She has spent her life uncovering and preserving history through the power of narrative. Her latest project, Greetings from Paradise, is more than a play—it's a time machine, transporting audiences back to the roaring 1920s, when Miami was booming, fortunes were being made (and lost), and the idea of paradise was up for grabs.To view the video format of this episode, visit the link below - https://youtu.be/da56vUbTP1ELinks to sites and resources mentioned in this episode - Miracle Theatre/Actors Playhouse - https://www.actorsplayhouse.orgMasterclass - https://www.masterclass.comContact and website for June Thomson Morris -www.junemorris.comWebsites 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

Send us a textPlaywrights Lisa Rosenbaum and Ronda Spinak sat in the Playwright's Spotlight to discuss the evolution of their play The Violin Maker from its Sydney, Australia production to its US premiere from its origin from The Violins of Hope through its process up to rehearsals. We delve into the styles of salons, approaching flashbacks and overwriting, respect and valuing while collaborating, getting to the emotion and infusing your writing with heart, stage directions as road maps and using stage directions in dialogue, and the elements of a good director. They offer great insight the playwrights of any level will benefit from. Enjoy!For tickets to The Violin Maker at International City Theatre in Long Beach, CA from April 23rd through May 11th, visit - https://internationalcitytheatre.csstix.com/event-details.php?e=813Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum is a writer and dramaturg at  the LA based theater and arts company The Braid, where she also develops and moderates programs that give voice to diverse and compelling Jewish voices. Stories from the Violins of Hope, her play about Israeli violin maker who restored instruments that survived the Holocaust, drew from her lengthy interviews with Amnon Weinstein himself. She is a proud member of The Dramatists Guild.Ronda Spinak is a writer, producer, and founder and artistic director of The Braid, a 17-year-old global nonprofit theater company. She develops and produces The Braid's signature Salon Theatre Series, curating more than 80 original Jewish-themed programs and adapting many of the pieces performed. She has developed six one-person shows, including Not That Jewish, which played 16 months in Los Angeles, then went to Off Broadway for nearly a year. Other plays include Stories from the Fringe and Oscar Wilde's Wife. She is a graduate of Stanford University, and holds degrees from and MBA from UCLA and a Masters in Writing from USC. She is also on the board of the Alliance for Jewish Theatre and is a member of the Dramatists Guild.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/HfmBP1d-M2gLinks to resources mentioned in this episode -The Braid - https://the-braid.orgInternational City Theatre - https://ictlongbeach.orgWebsite and Socials for The Braid -The Braid - https://the-braid.orgYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheBraidStoriesFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/thebraidstories/IG - @thebraidstoriesWebsites 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

Host Tjaša Ferme chats with playwright Chisa Hutchinson about her play, Bleeding Class. Chisa was aiming to write a wacky satire about a global pandemic, but then everything came true. She says she's not clairvoyant, but has always been just a bit before her time!

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 439th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Three Important Questions that will Transform your Playwriting Forever!" MY PREMIERE PLAYWRITING COACHING - A 1 Year program! https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 438th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "What the Heck is a Lifeline?" Check out my Premiere Playwriting Coaching - A year-long commitment to become a Fantastic playwright! https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service My Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Send us a textBritish L.A.-based playwright Stephen Laughton came sat in-house in the Playwright's Spotlight before the West Coast Premiere of his play One Jewish Boy. In this interview, we discuss the differences in the London, New York, and Los Angeles markets, London gatekeepers and the draw of the London Fringe and its difference to the Edinburgh Fringe, taking advantage of Covid, and the responsibilities and how playwriting applies to the Astrophysics Team at the American Museum of Natural History. Mid conversation we accept a call from Stephen's director and give a live, on-air response. We follow it up with what makes a great hook and how that provides a good story, what British playwrights sound like, stealing from the best, and moving to L.A. to do theatre. Like most Brits, Stephen's a charmer and offers some great stories and insight. Enjoy!For tickets to One Jewish Boy at the Atwater Village Theater in Los Angeles through April 28th, visit - https://echotheatercompany.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200474485.Stephen Laughton is an award-winning, critically acclaimed writer. He has work in various stages of development across film and theater in NYC, L.A., London, Cape Town, and Sydney. He has worked with major theaters and broadcasters including and is an associate artist in the Astrophysics team at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Two major plays coming up in 2025 include: Giants, which explores the controversy that unfolded on the set of James Dean's last film, set to open at the Sydney Opera House; and Velocity, which examines mental health in the LGBTQ+ community and is set to open at the Hayden Planetarium in New York City.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/bSazK8h4ndkLinks to resources mentioned in this episode -American Museum of Natural History - https://www.amnh.orgNick Hern Books - https://www.nickhernbooks.co.ukWebsite and Socials for Stephen Laughton -https://www.adventuresinstenography.comWebsites 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 437th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Playwriting and Production!"   I just released my new Premiere Playwriting Coaching! For more info and to book it, check out the link below: https://www.manhattanrep.com/premiere   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C   My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program   Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Send us a textBefore the World Premiere of his very first play, Judson Jones streamed into the Playwright's Spotlight. We discussed his background in theatre, film, and television and his journey to writing his first play and any challenges he overcame. We dove into hitting  the flow state, introducing new ideas, the appreciation of new works, storytelling through Post-It notes, working with deadlines, collaborating with designers and the benefits of simplicity and justification as well as eliminating and having an outside eye. We wrap with delving into devices vs dialogue, working with sensitive subject matter, writing out of order, and observing the loss of grace in society. It's a very heartwarming conversation. Enjoy!  His play Canaan Unremembered opened March 24th at the Court Square Theater in Long Island City, New York and runs through April 19th, 2025. For tickets, visit -https://www.theatreeast.org/canaan-unrememberedJudson Jones is a playwright and award-winning producer and director who has had the privilege of collaborating on the premieres of Tim Blake Nelson's Eye Of God, Christopher Durang's The Vietnamizaton of New Jersey, David Crawford's Harvest, Bennett Windheim's Normalcy, Megan O'Brien's The Jungle Book, Daniel MacIvor's The Soldier Dreams, and Devil and the Deep with Air Supply‘s Graham Russell. He serves on the Board of Directors for Texas Dramatists, is a member of Actors' Equity and SAG/AFTRA, and an instructor at the Kanbar Institute of Film & Television, Tisch School of the Arts, NYU and the Stella Adler Studio of Acting.To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/IiK0f9MXhlELinks to resources mentioned in this episode -Powerhouse Theatre - https://www.vassar.edu/powerhouseWebsite and Socials for Judson Jones -IG - @judsonjonesFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/judson.jonesWebsites 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

Jack Ciapciak is a New York based Playwright & TV Writer originally from St. Louis, Missouri. He studied Acting and Playwriting at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, earning a BFA in Dramatic Writing and the 2017 Goldberg Prize for his thesis play Naming The Dog. In 2022 his fiancé Jack Lorentzen died from an undiagnosed heart condition on Christmas Eve at the age of 30. Jack discusses his experience with grief, hoping to help others in their journey too. Reality Life with Kate Casey What to Watch List: https://katecasey.substack.com Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/katecasey Twitter: https://twitter.com/katecasey Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/katecaseyca Tik Tok: http://www.tiktok.com/itskatecasey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113157919338245 Amazon List: https://www.amazon.com/shop/katecasey Like it to Know It: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/katecaseySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week's 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, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, 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

Send us a textPlaywright Megan Gogerty streamed into the Playwright's Spotlight right before the opening of her one-woman show and reimagining of the story of Beowulf. It's a fascinating episode with tons of wisdom to take in, unpack, and apply. We discuss one-person adaptations and letting the play be itself, the importance of intuition, the use of two ideas that collide, and knowing what the question is. We delve into the structure of a one-person vs multi-actor piece, the structure of a one-person show, the audience as another character, smaller markets and selling widgets, who you vs who knows you, accessibility, gatekeeping, and asking for permission, and the role of the audience and making them ask questions. The more this podcast grow, the more every episode offers something new. Megan delivers. Enjoy. AND, if you're in the LA area be sure to catch the West Coast premiere of her production FEAST at The Count's Den through April 6th through the ticket link below -https://events.immersiveartcollective.org/events/immersiveartcollective/1511665Megan Gogerty is a playwright and comedian. Her solo show Lady Macbeth and her Pal, Megan played at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and won the Audience Pick of the Fringe at the Cincinnati Fringe Festival. Her play Bad Panda (Theatre Without Borders, Beijing; Iron Crow Theatre Co.; WordBRIDGE Boomerang Playwright honoree) is published by Original Works Publishing and was translated into Spanish for a five-month run at Del Teatro Milan in Mexico City. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution listed her solo show Hillary Clinton Got Me Pregnant in their yearly Top Ten Best Plays. Megan's musical drama Love Jerry was produced in the New York Musical Theatre Festival where it won three Talkin' Broadway Citations and four NYMF Excellence Awards including Excellence in Writing. She was a Playwright's Center Jerome Fellow, A WordBRIDGE alum, and earned her MFA in Playwriting from the University of Texas at Austin. She currently teaches playwriting at the University of Iowa and is a regularly returning visiting-faculty for the Playwright's Lab at Hollins University.For tickets to FEAST through April 6th, 2025, visit - https://events.immersiveartcollective.org/events/immersiveartcollective/1511665To watch the video format of this episode, visit - https://youtu.be/ZJBqlXMom-8Links to resources mentioned in this episode -Know Theatre of Cincinnati - https://www.knowtheatre.comWalking Shadow Theatre Company - https://www.walkingshadow.orgLenaea High School Theatre Festival - https://www.lenaea.orgMoving Arts - https://movingarts.orgOriginal Works Publishing - https://www.originalworksonline.comNew Play Exchange - http://newplayexchange.orgWebsite and Socials for Megan Gogerty -Website - www.megangogerty.comBlueSky - @megangogertyTikTok - @megangogertyWebsites 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.losangelescollegiateplaywrightsfeSupport the show

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 436th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "MAKING IT HAPPEN ANY WAY THAT YOU CAN!" This was just published on Amazon:   Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area  https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Weekly shoutout: Read Issue 5 of Engine(Idling Lit! -- Hi there, We're back! Today I am delighted to be arts calling playwright/producer Anna Capunay! (annacapunay.com) About our guest: Anna Capunay is a Queens, NY native. Her plays include: A Cat's Tale (Roy Arias Stages), and Cowl Girl (The Players Theatre). These works were adapted for the screen -- A Cat's Tale winning Best Director for Comedy and Best Ensemble Cast for Comedy at the San Francisco's Best Actors Film Festival. The indie feature debuted at the Chelsea Film Festival in NYC, 2016. Cowl Girl was shot as a TV pilot and was included as Best of the Fest finalist at the Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival, 2017. Anna's directorial debut was for the short film she also wrote, Your Silent Face. The short won multiple awards via the film festival circuit, most notably for Best Screenwriting at the Festival of Cinema NYC and Best LGBTQ Film at the L.A. Punk Film Festival, both in 2023. Anna has received multiple grants over the years supporting her projects. Most recently, she was awarded the NYC Women's Fund for Media, Music and Theatre via the New York Foundation for the Arts. This grant has fully funded this stage production of La Gota Fria: The Cold Sweat. Additionally, Anna was awarded a Queens Arts Funds grant (her third) to help produce her short film, Sombras, later this year. Anna's upcoming project includes writing her first feature film to be produced with her partner, Bill McDonald, called Contigo. ABOUT THE PLAY: LA GOTA FRÍA: THE COLD SWEAT is a dramedy set in 1990s Queens, NY. When the matriarch of the Gonzalez family falls ill, her loved ones rally around her: a blind but hyperaware grandfather, a frenzied daughter and her doting husband. And the meddlesome family friend with a particular interest for the Gonzalez women, including the cat. LA GOTA FRÍA:THE COLD SWEAT is a new sick family comedy that will have you rethink your choices for cancer treatments. So let's go back in time to Queens, NY in the 1990s when you, your family and your friends were dancing to new and classic Salsa, Merengue and Latin Pop! Website: https://lagotafriaplay.com Now playing at The Players Theatre NYC, March 6-23 2025. Get your tix NOW! https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/cal/277/1740805200000 Thanks for this amazing conversation, Anna! All the best! -- Arts Calling is produced by Jaime Alejandro. HOW TO SUPPORT ARTS CALLING: PLEASE CONSIDER LEAVING A REVIEW, OR SHARING THIS EPISODE WITH A FRIEND! YOUR SUPPORT TRULY MAKES A DIFFERENCE, AND THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO LISTEN.

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 435th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Being Transparent as a Playwright!"   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C  My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Get my Free book The Complete Fantastic Play Series as a .pdf if you sign up for this member area by Sunday March 16, 2025 Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Sharon Scott Williams bares her soul in a play called Crazy Mama, a powerful, personal story that's at once unique and wholly relatable. It's about family, mental illness and the bonds and devotion that propel us to protect and defend those we hold dear.  Crazy Mama is running at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura, CA March 26 - April 6, 2025. It stars Linda Purl and is directed by Anson Williams, both icons of classic TV, including Happy Days, and one of whom is married to playwright Sharon Scott Williams. (You only get one guess which.)Sharon came home from school, at the age of eight, to find her mother wielding a knife, in a psychotic episode. The ensuing events led to extended hospitalization and a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. Her family's coping heroism inspired her, decades later, to write a memoir, which Sharon's husband, actor and director Anson Williams (Yes, you guess correctly), felt would make an astonishing one-woman stage show.With Linda Purl in the starring role (playing 16 different characters!) the stage play of 'Crazy Mama' gives audiences the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences and it provides a conduit to conversations about mental illness, trauma and family dynamics. Sharon tells how the crafting of the play inspired the processing of her long buried, confusing emotional cocktail of fear, guilt, shame, and anger and with similar Virginia ancestral roots, Linda identified instantly with the work and the power of its messages.Plus, Sharon, Anson and Linda all claim Covid Love stories! Sharon, an Ojai, California Real Estate agent, had shown Anson a house a decade earlier. But, with both of them single, she received a text invitation from him for lunch! They spent the pandemic falling in love. Linda ran into an acquaintance with a very similar show-biz history, Patrick Duffy. Their mutual friend, Richard Thomas paved the way and their Zoom friendship blossomed into romance! Also, we are proud to present our all-new IMDB Roulette Sub Genre quiz sensation, Were You On It, featuring full disclosures about Anson and Linda's appearances on: Baywatch, The Waltons, The Secret Storm, Fantasy Island, Black Market Baby and I Married A Centerfold!In recommendations-- Weezy: Documentary Beatles 64 on Disney+Fritz: Documentary Becoming Katharine Graham on Amazon PrimePath Points of Interest:Crazy Mama at The Rubicon TheatreAnson Williams IMDBAnson Williams WikipediaAnson Williams on FacebookLinda Purl IMDBLinda Purl WikipediaLinda Purl on InstagramLinda Purl in "POSSIBILITIES - songs of HOPE, RISK and MAYBE" at Catalina Jazz Club in HollywoodBeatles 64 - Disney+Becoming Katharine Graham - Amazon Prime

This week, we're joined by Scottish writer Morna Young, whose powerful storytelling has made waves in theatre and on screen. From tackling imposter syndrome to writing the River City Christmas special, Morna shares her journey, the highs and lows of her career, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.We chat about:

Send us a textAudrey Cefaly streamed into the Playwright's Spotlight after I had the pleasure of seeing the production of her play Alabaster at The Fountain Theatre in Los Angles. This is first time I've had the opportunity to talk to the playwright after seeing their work. We discuss asking big questions, making changes throughout the play's evolution, how much design is on the page, knowing the rules of the card game, and refraining from hardwiring stage directions to allow creative freedom. We also delve into stripping the work down to its core, the use of hashtags, writing poetic dialogue, stillness in storytelling and other way finders, and the use of overlapping and dual dialogue. We wrap it up writing regional, the use of hypnotic language, the purpose of an artistic statements, and her toolbox of playwright vocabulary and "How to Playwright." It's a great conversation that went on for another thirty minutes after I stopped recording. Won't let that happen again. Enjoy, and be sure to go catch Alabaster at any of the theaters below.Audrey Cefaly is an alumna of the Playwrights' Arena cohort at Arena Stage, a recipient of the Walter E. Dakin Fellowship from the Sewanee Writers Conference, and a Dramatist Guild Foundation Traveling Master. She is published by Concord Theatricals, Smith & Kraus, and Applause Books. Her plays have been produced by Cincinnati Playhouse, Florida Studio, Florida Rep, Gulfshore Playhouse, Signature Theatre, and many others. Her play Alabaster received an 11-city Rolling World Premiere, the largest in National New Play Network history and is now playing at The Fountain Theater in Los Angeles until March 30th.For tickets to Alabaster at The Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles, CA - https://www.fountaintheatre.com/events/alabasterFor tickets to Alabaster in Grand Rapids, MI, through March 8, 2025 -https://actorstheatregrandrapids.org/programming/coming-soon/alabaster/For tickets to Alabaster in Charolette, NC, through March 16 - https://charlottecultureguide.com/event/430227/alabaster-by-audrey-cefalyTo watch the video version of this interview, visit -           https://youtu.be/pcJSzLrAk-IWebsite and Socials for Audrey Cefaly -www.audreycefaly.comSubstack - https://audreycefaly.substack.comBluesky - @audreycefaly IG - @alcefaly X - @alcefaly Websites 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 434th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Turning a Story into a Play!"   ZEN AND THE ART OF MARATHON RUNNING by Ken Wolf Get it on Amazon at the link below: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ6XZ9TW   On Amazon: A collection of my plays! Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C My NEW BIG Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Mark interviews writer, actor and poet, Richard Marsh, the genius behind YIPPEE KI YAY the one-man poetry stage parody of Die Hard. Prior to the interview, Mark shares comments from recent episodes, a brief personal update, and a word from this episode's sponsor. This episode is sponsored by the Show, Don't Tell Writing Podcast with Suzy Vadori. In this weekly show, Suzy brings you writing techniques, best practices, motivation, inspirational stories from real live authors out there making it in the world, and actionable advice that can help you turn that book you're writing into the bestseller you know deep down that it can be. Mark also mentions a free podcast event he'll be on with Suzie on March 7th called NAVIGATING TODAY'S PUBLISHING. In the interview, Mark and Richard talk about: How, ever since Richard started poetry, he ended up using it to tell the types of stories that one wouldn't normally think could be told via poems The poetry rom-com stage show Richard worked on with a good friend How the procrastination project of writing a Die Hard play told in poetry became a priority when Richard wasn't interested in the play he'd been intending to roll out that had a heavy themes of grief and loss. The Die Hard play was fun and silly and funny and warm, and was more of what the world could use at the time How focusing on a few elements of what would make Richard himself laugh was a great place to start The themes in the play of how love and life change through parenthood The importance to Richard of not just retelling or parodying Die Hard, but to do so much more How the personal story that Richard weaved into his Die Hard stage show ties in quite nicely to the relationship between John and Holly Art impacting us differently through various stages in our life The first time that Richard ever performed the play, which was an active reading in the middle of a crowded bar The initial public performance of the stage show at The Omnibus theatre in London in March of 2022 Taking the show on the road beyond the UK by touring the US during Christmas 2023 Additionally touring in Australia and Canada A little bit about the play Richard DIRTY GREAT LOVE STORY that Richard co-wrote and performed with Katie Bonna was created and launched How the people who go to poetry events are some of the most loveable weirdos in the world The various plays that Richard has published Working with producer James Seabright to produce Yippee Ki-Yay The numerous complex elements of staging Yippee Ki-Yay, including movement and physicality, puppet show aspects, props, finger guns, and more - and the importance of the collaborators that helped with this The two-hander stage show WINGMAN which is a type of romantic comedy between a father and son, which has been optioned for both US and UK television The numerous things Richard has written that ultimately end up as an "elaborate PDF" on his PC The moment when Stephen E. de Sousa co-writer of Die Hard, went to see Richard's play at the London Action Festival The musical Richard is working on which is based on the movie SON OF RAMBOW And more . . . After the interview Mark reflects on a few things that came up in the conversation.   Links of Interest: Richard Marsh's Website Yippee Ki Yay: The Parody Stage Show Richard's social media handle: @speckywiththegoodhair Richard on Instagram James Seabright / Producer EP 398 - Multiple Outlets for Storytelling with Denise Baden EP 402 - The Visible Author Marketing Method with Laurie Cooper Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections How to Access Patreon RSS Feeds Mark's YouTube channel Mark's Stark Reflections on Writing & Publishing Newsletter (Signup) An Author's Guide to Working With Bookstores and Libraries The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City Only Monsters in the Building The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard Merry Christmas! Shitter Was Full!: A Trivia Guide to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation   Richard Marsh is a writer (film, TV, theatre, to-do lists). Actor (stage, radio, social events). CEO of the MCU (Marsh Connected Universe). He will rhyme for money (write poems on commission). You can find him online at: https://www.richmarsh.com/   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 433rd episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Fantastic Play Development!!"   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C   My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program   Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service   Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 432nd episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Action and Events! What Fun!"   My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays!   Read some of my WACKY plays!  Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C   Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service My Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Winner of the Obie Award for Excellence in Playwriting and the Outer Circle Critics Award for Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play Twenty years ago, Pastor Paul's church was nothing more than a modest storefront. Now he presides over a congregation of thousands. But Paul is about to preach a sermon that will shake the foundations of his church's belief. A big-little play about faith in America This award-winning play masterfully examines the price of conviction and the complexities of changing one's mind. Lucas Hnath's works include A DOLL'S HOUSE, PART 2 and HILLARY AND CLINTON which were produced on Broadway at the John Golden Theatre. "A smart, stimulating play…Mr. Hnath grants his characters the dignity of sincere belief, even as his play raises probing questions. Mr. Hnath is quickly emerging as one of the brightest new voices of his generation.” — New York Times This is the company's second production of a Lucas Hnath play. In 2017 NHTC mounted a critically acclaimed production of Hnath's A PUBLIC READING OF AN UNPRODUCED SCREENPLAY ABOUT THE DEATH OF WALT DISNEY. THE CHRISTIANS is directed by Deena Nicol-Blifford, who appeared in the NHTC hit production of CRY IT OUT last season and whose prior directing credits with the company include Conor McPherson's THE SEAFARER. The cast includes company members Susan Kulp, Margaret Mann, Marty Tucker, and J. Kevin Smith, and visiting artist Gavin Whelan. ​​Performances for THE CHRISTIANS will take place on the NHTC Stage in the back of EBM Vintage, 839 Chapel Street, New Haven. Performance dates are February 27 and March 6 at 7:30 p.m., and February 28, and March 1, 7, and 8 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. https://www.newhaventheatercompany.com/

Send us a textThis is a very important episode shining light onto a subject a lot of us don't realize our fellow creatives are struggling with and how it may affect their craft - disabilities. Peter Anthony Fields sat in the Playwright's Spotlight and shared his experience fighting Parkinson's and how his diagnosis changes his creative pursuit. We discuss not only the physical afflictions of the disease but also the mental symptoms, his transition from filmmaker to playwright, advice for other creatives whom might be trying to overcome a disease or disability and the tools to help them cope but, also, the gifts having a disability may offer. We talk about self publishing and promotion, facets of playwriting playwright's shouldn't burden themselves with, how minute direction can change a piece, and the ramifications of a character's action. It was certainly an insightful interview that I hope you take something away from to encourage other artists who might be holding themselves back from the creativity brewing inside. Peter Anthony Fields has written numerous stage plays that have been read or performed in Ohio, Texas, Wisconsin, Missouri, and London, U.K. The self-published edition of his full-length stage play, That Guy, was awarded the top prize in the Performing Arts category of the 2020 Best Book Awards, sponsored by American Book Fest. The Invited, a whodunit mystery, was self-published in September of 2022 and is a 2024 Red Ribbon Award winner from The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. His 10 minute play, See, Invisible, was performed at the Columbus Black Theatre Festival in Columbus, Ohio also in 2022. His plays, About Michael, Monster, and The Parking Lot, are published and licensed by Lazy Bee Scripts. He has a BA in Theatre Studies from Kent State University and is a member of the Dramatists Guild.To watch the video format of this episode, visit -            https://youtu.be/Ds5QWyPxf44Links to resources mentioned in this episode -Playwright's Corner -                                     https://www.youtube.com/@PeterFields18Lazy Bee Scripts -                                                            https://www.lazybeescripts.co.ukThe Wishing Shelf Book Awards -                                              https://www.thewsa.co.ukAmazon Self Publishing -                                                             https://kdp.amazon.comWebsite and Socials for Peter Anthony Fields -www.peteranthonyfields.comPeter Anthony Fields' Amazon Page -               https://www.amazon.com/stores/Peter-Anthony-Fields/author/B07SHJG5SG?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-anthony-fields-3a188a182/                Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PeterFields007                                               IG - @peteranthonyfieldsSupport the show

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 431st episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "To Come Back a Short Distance Correctly!"   My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays!   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C   Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching   Email me feedback on my origin story at: How2WritePlays@yahoo.com

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 430th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Listening to your Words!"   The March Playwright's Reading Room  on Zoom - Join us! https://www.manhattanrep.com/reading-room   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C   My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program   Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service  My Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching   Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 429th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Ridiculously Wacky Plays!"   This was just published on Amazon: Ridiculously Wacky Plays by Ken Wolf https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW9G9W5C My NEW Playwriting Book on Amazon!  The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Send us a textBefore the World Premiere of her play, Georgia and the Butch, playwright Carolyn Gage streamed into the Playwright's Spotlight. As happens with most episodes lately we explore something new about the craft and delve into the documentary play, in this case the relationship between Georgia O'Keefe and Maria Chabot. We discuss framing and censorship, theatre critics, creative license. We also chat about her experience approaching musicals and adaptations, the purpose and rules of a song, her journey into playwriting, the lessons of structure from Bernard Gerbanier, satisfying your audience, the benefits of complex dialogue and resting your cards, and collaborating with your audience. Carolyn was also generous enough to offer anyone a free pdf of any work in her catalog if you mention this episode of Playwright's Spotlight. I hope you'll take her up on the opportunity. Enjoy!Georgia and the Butch opens at The Tank in New York City on February 25th through March 12th. Tickets are available at https://thetanknyc.org/calendar-1/2025/2/25/georgia-and-the-butch.Carolyn Gage is a playwright, performer, and director. She has written over eighty plays from full length to one-acts, musicals, adaptations and one-woman shows while specializing in non-traditional roles for women. In 2022, her play In McClintock's Corn was National Runner-up for the Jane Chambers Award for Excellence in Feminist Playwriting, sponsored by the Women and Theatre Program of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education. To watch the video format of this episode, visit -https://youtu.be/-wkhoWMD_kgLinks to resources mentioned in this episode -Playwriting by Bernard Gerbanier -                         https://www.amazon.com/Playwriting-Write-Theater-Bernard-Grebanier/dp/0064634981Websites and Socials for Carolyn Gage -www.carolyngage.comFB - https://www.facebook.com/carolyn.gage.3                                                         Blue Sky - @carolyngageWebsites 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 428th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Interview with Emma McGlashen of Murmuration Theatre Company in NYC!" Murmuration THEATRE COMPANY—an emerging queer femme led indie company, formed in 2022—aims to produce work that platforms new talent, speaks to contemporary issues (eco-crisis, AI and new tech, economic instability, LGBT and reproductive rights, etc), and connects our audiences with local resources and nonprofit organizations! murmurationtheatreco@gmail.com ------------------------------------- My NEW Book on Amazon - The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching   Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 427th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Using Personal Wit to Make your Comedy Even Funnier!" My NEW Book on Amazon - The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays! Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 426th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Writing the 1 Actor Play - Revisited!"   My NEW Book on Amazon - The Complete Fantastic Play Series! Now in Hardcover! Everything you need to know to write great plays! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTQ383J7   EVERYONE HAS A STORY! Learn the Secrets of Writing a Fantastic One Actor Play! 8 Week Coaching Course! https://www.manhattanrep.com/everyone-story   Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more! Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Send us a textThis interview is a long time coming. I am extremely grateful for Adam taking the time to come on to share his knowledge. I'm sure if time allotted, we could easily could've had a three hour conversation, and I promise we will do at least one more episode. In this talk, we discuss his decision to write a book about playwriting from a letter-writing perspective, common questions he is asked, marketing and approaching theaters, dealing with rejection, finding opportunities, and negotiating compensation. We also discuss applying to Julliard, structure, considering your audience, the Math of Playwriting, monologues as a marketing tool, how changing characteristics might affect approach, the strategy of revealing information, the traps of questions and answers in dialogue, and the benefits of (earned) reversals. Playwrights of any level will walk away with something from this conversation. I look forward to the next conversations with Adam, because I will walk away so much the wiser. Enjoy!ADAM SZYMKOWICZ's plays have been produced throughout the U.S., Canada, and around the world. He was the premiere Resident Playwright at The Chance Theater in Anaheim, CA and the first playwright to participate in Bloomington Playwrights Projects' Square One Series. He has been to The Orchard Project and to JAW at Portland Center Stage, served twice as Playwright in Residence at the William Inge Center, and twice as a Dramatists Guild Fund's Traveling Masters. Adam received a Playwright's Diploma from The Juilliard School's Lila Acheson Wallace American Playwrights Program and an MFA from Columbia University where he was the Dean's Fellow. Plays include - Deflowering Waldo, Pretty Theft, Food For Fish, Incendiary, Clown Bar, Rare Birds, Marian Old Fashioned Cold Fusion, The Parking Lot, The Night Children, When Jack Met Jill, and Heart of Snow. His monologue book, Small Explosions came out from Applause in early 2023. His playwriting book, Letters To A Young Playwright came out from Applause in fall of 2024.He has interviewed 1100 playwrights on his blog.To watch the video format of this episode, visit -https://youtu.be/4ZiQuC1g7-wLinks to resources mentioned in this episode -TCG (Theatre Communications Group) -https://www.tcg.orgThe Chance -https://chancetheater.comWebsites and Socials for Adam Szymkowicz -https://www.adamszymkowicz.comI Interview Playwrights (Blog) -http://aszym.blogspot.com/2021/06/1100-playwright-interviews.htmlFacebook -https://www.facebook.com/adamszymkowiczIG - @aszymkowiczWebsites 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

"Creativity is healing." How do we tackle life's biggest questions? How do we reconcile our own childhood experiences? How do we navigate trauma, and how can we use our own knowledge and experiences to help others?In this episode, Emmeline sits down with the prolific playwright Serena Norr to talk about the ways in which art gives us agency. Serena shares how her childhood and her experiences as a mom have shaped her creative life--and tells us how she makes time in her busy schedule for creativity and how that time has transformed her life. They also talk in-depth about Serena's new, thought-provoking play, Agency for the Lost, and why the most important work we can do is the work of our hearts--not the work we think others want us to be doing.  To learn more about Serena Norr, or to follow her creative journey, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram. You can also purchase tickets to see her new play, Agency for the Lost, through The Tank NYC or follow the play 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.

Ken Wolf, Artistic Director of Manhattan Repertory Theatre in New York City, presents the 425th episode of THE PLAYWRITING PODCAST. Episode Story Topic: "Using A.I. to Write a Play!"   My NEW Book on Amazon - The Complete Fantastic Play Series! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT6LQWZC Everything you need to know to write great plays and to get them produced!   Manhattan Rep's Play Production Program: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-production-program   Manhattan Rep's Play Connection Service: https://www.manhattanrep.com/play-connection-service   Check out my Playwright Video and Resource Member Area at: https://www.howtowriteplays.com/playwright-video Playwriting and Creativity Videos, special Member Areas and more!   Get Coached by me on writing a play and it will Rock! https://www.manhattanrep.com/playwriting-coaching   Email: How2WritePlays@yahoo.coms

Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright and TV and film writer Steve Yockey to discuss Steve's latest play, Sleeping Giant, which is playing at the Road Theatre Company in Los Angeles. The play, which is about a group of people dealing with a mysterious lake monster, is Steve's way of exploring authoritarianism, a theme that is even more timely today than it was when he starting writing the play in 2018. Steve talks about his journey as a writer; from making the decision to abandon the business school path in college in order to study playwriting, to getting withering critiques for his first play and not writing for years afterward, to making the transition from theatre to TV. He also talks about the bold and out there pitch he gave for how he would adapt the book The Flight Attendant that won him the job writing the HBO series. And he opens up about the outpouring of love and support he received from fans after Netflix cancelled his most recent show Dead Boy Detectives, after one season. Other topics include: Sharon Stone showing up with a wig she had made to play Kaley Cuoco's mom on The Flight Attendant, why he loves to have spectacle in his plays, why he likes to feature queer characters in his plays and the lesson he has to keep learning over and over again, with each new medium that he goes into. https://roadtheatre.org/

Katie checks in with actor, playwright, teacher, and the author of the upcoming Off-Broadway play, Nina, directed by Katie and produced by Katie and Francesca Carpanini. Nina runs at Theaterlab January 23-February 9.

Katie checks in with actor (Maria in West Side Story at the 5th Avenue Theatre, Luisa in The Fantasticks at the Cape Playhouse, upcoming: Magnolia in Showboat at Target Margin Theater) and writer (The Question, 2024 Eugene O'Neill finalist, BMI program), Rebbekah Vega-Romero.