WCR - Writing and Revising (Lesson)
Writing and Revising
Introduction
In the previous module, you solidified the key beats and structure of your plot. Now, all that’s left is the writing. How you approach this can vary based on the ideas you already have or how you best like to work. You can start at the beginning or the end. It is entirely up to you. Now that you have completed all of the planning and character backstories, the method for putting pen to paper can be based on any writing exercise explored in previous lessons, from improvisation of scenes to charting out monologues that will occur in particular moments. The one thing you will definitely need is a flexible schedule and feedback. In this lesson, we will look at scheduling and a scene submission method used to present portions of scripts in progress. We will also engage in an abbreviated review of the Critical Response Method which will be used for the formally submitted scenes.
Schedules and Feedback
Schedules
As mentioned in the introduction to this lesson, the one thing you will definitely need is a flexible schedule and feedback. Let's talk about the schedule. Consider the schedule you employed for the multi-genre research project. Treat each mapped-out-beat as a step in the process. Set benchmark dates for completion of a first draft for each. You will also need to set a schedule for gathering informal feedback for each section.
A writing schedule outline template is included below.
Click here to access the sample Schedule Outline Template. Links to an external site.
Feedback
Previously, you engaged in the Critical Response Method for a ten-minute script in progress. The same process will be used to assist in the development of scenes you are currently writing for your play or screenplay. Once a scene is complete, it is a good idea to get feedback from others. Unfortunately, it is not always realistic to read every part of a script when working in writing groups, clubs, or classes.
Collaboration is still a key element to dramatic writing. Informal collaboration, as was modeled in the early modules for this course, can be done anytime, either with friends and family whose feedback you trust or with classmates on the forum.
Scheduling alone makes it near impossible to have every part of your script read at every stage in the formal setting. In this lesson, we will go over the process of submitting sections of your work for formal staged readings and critical response.
Many playwright groups have mechanisms for providing their members with access to quality feedback and staged readings.
Working Title Playwrights is an award-winning Atlanta based Playwriting group whose mission is:
To provide playwrights the opportunity to excel at their craft by fostering an environment that nurtures the creation of powerful, thought-provoking and relevant plays that bring new, diverse voices to the local and national stage.
Their system for soliciting submission material for their bi-monthly critique sessions is based on the form linked below.
Once the submissions are sent and scheduled, each script in progress will undergo a Critical Response.
In the video below, review the abbreviated key elements of the critical response process below including the participants, the group norms, steps in the process, and how to consider revisions.
Download extended notes for "Critical Response Method" video here. Links to an external site.
Critical Response Method Review
Review the Critical Response Method below.
IMAGES & VIDEOS CREATED BY GAVS