writing a play?

Question

how do i start? whats a good topic to write about? is there a format i should follow?

alll information appreciated. thankss so much

Answer 1

There are so many 'rules' to writing. They're good to have a look at when you get stuck, but no real writer ever goes by them.

If there's something that matters to you, an issue or an incident that sticks in your mind, write that scene up first.

Then think about what sort of story it could be part of and start trying to chart a story, point by point.

As other necessary scenes become clear, try to write those up.

The best playwright I know takes a very long time over his first drafts, and goes at it very intuitively.

All the shaping and fitting it in with correct structure can come later, when you have your story beaten out.

One ok book on playwrighting (and they're few and far between) is "The Sound of One Hand Clapping" by Sheila Yeger.

Answer 2

Write about something you know. There doesn't need to be a topic per say, as much as there should be a story. Just tell your story. Once you have your story told you can go back and put in in "play" or even, "screenplay" format.

Answer 3

You should always begin with an idea. If you do not have one, start with brainstorming in a notebook until you come up with an idea.

There is a simple formula for writing drama.

1) You have a person living their life normally

2) Conflict enters it

3) They try to resolve the conflict

4) When they resolve it, they go back to living their life - changed from the experience.

As for the format, pick up any printed play to see.

Pax - C