Working in the Theatre: Playwriting

This episode of Working in the Theatre was featured in our new book, "American Theatre Wing, an oral history: 100 Years, 100 Voices, 100 Million Miracles." Learn more about the book at http://a.co/d/9A5qc9a.

“There's no formula for how to write a good play. Nobody knows what's going to be successful, even if you define success commercially, artistically. So, you therefore have to fall back on writing what you're really interested in, what you really believe in, and that makes the plays unique and idiosyncratic. And paradoxically, if you don't think about trying to be successful, your play is more likely to be a success!"

As we follow Obie winner, Tony winner and American Theatre Wing Chair David Henry Hwang, we discover the importance of collaboration, playing with words and ideas, and assessing it’s impact on an audience. Through this process of discovery, the world of theatre is better off by receiving writing that reflects the world of possibility and brave new work.

Special thanks to Columbia University School of the Arts and the Boards and Advisory Committee of American Theatre Wing.

American Theatre Wing’s Working in the Theatre documentary series features the most fascinating people on the stage, behind the scenes, and in the audience. From Tony Awards® and Obie Awards® winning artists to the next generation of theatre makers, we capture theatre’s inner-workings, industry luminaries, and unique stories that surround important work.

American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards® and home of and the Obie Awards®: for more information visit https://americantheatrewing.org.

#WorkingInTheTheatre #Season39

--Support Working in the Theatre--

Help us continue to freely distribute Working in the Theatre by becoming a Patreon member! We’ll take you behind the scenes with some of your favorite theatre artists, onto the red carpet at the Tony and OBIE Awards, and give you opportunities to interact with industry luminaries. The proceeds from your Patreon membership will be invested in grants, scholarships, and content that supports the theatre community across the country.



Play a key role in our industry and join now:   / americantheatrewing