Playwriting: A Backstage Guide

by Dan Rebellato

This book is ideal for anyone keen to understand how contemporary plays and playwrights work, particularly those wanting to write for the stage themselves. Drawing heavily on contemporary practice, it considers moments from a range of plays, with a focus on those from the National Theatre's repertoire. The book embraces a range of different dramaturgical structures and styles popular today; plays by a diverse selection of writers; and the current openness of dramatic form. A book of tools, rather than rules, this guide provides suggestions and provocations, exercises and tricks, examples and discussions. An ideal text for playwrights to hone their craft.

Genres: Writing

160 pages, Paperback

Published February 23, 2023

Reviews

[George Laws · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might write a play now

[Rodney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a solid guide to playwriting this is! With exercises, possible pitfalls and suggestions, it puts budding playwrights in the position to nudge that new play into its proper direction. I’ve already tried some tips out and noticed it helped me achieve what I wanted.

[Salli · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful little book full of commonsense and cheer. I found myself laughing in recognition and enjoyed every page. A great summary of what it has taken me many years to learn on my own. Maybe I am not alone.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sorted now, thanks Dan x

[Aiden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable, and easily digestible book on playwriting. 10/10 would recommend

[Keith · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent as usual

Mr R never let’s you down…. Full of gems and enthusiasm… this needs to be in any writers collection. Devoured it in one sitting and bought too many books that were referenced

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much from this.