Feb 2022 - new term of writing courses! And new course: Copywriting

We're excited to announce that we've just opened up booking for a new term of the Intro and Progressing courses.

And we're even more thrilled to announce the launch of our new writing course: Copywriting.

So, if you're looking for a last-minute Christmas present, consider giving someone (or yourself) the gift of words.

Intro

Our ever-popular Intro course is perfect for people new to writing for the stage. We cover all the fundamentals and help you develop a unique collection of characters that gather together to create tension on the page (and on the stage).

The directed sessions include loads of writing exercises that help get your ideas out of your head and onto the page. And at the end of the 10-week course, we share your work (if you choose) with an invited and public audience - either online or in-person at the charming Kings Arms Theatre (depending on restrictions at the time).

No experience is necessary, and you don't need any clear ideas about your piece - we develop your ideas during the taught sessions.

The aim is to write a killer 10-page opening to a script.

Intro isn't just for beginners

But Intro isn't just for beginners. Many playwrights send their scripts off to competitions and professional readers for theatres. But no matter how great the ending is, they struggle to get through the initial 10-page sift.

If you're constantly getting that dreaded "thanks but no thanks" email, you'll know what I'm talking about. If you're getting through to the second read, then you're already doing something right, but if you get the standard email reply, then you could do with polishing up your openings.

As mentioned, the Intro course is all about developing a killer 10-page opener. Many aspiring playwrights fail to hit the ground running, and - often - nothing much has happened by page 10.

The Intro course is all about action. We work hard to work through the fluff and the chat, getting right to the heart of the matter from the opening page.

No more boring exposition; you'll start your script from the point at which the world is about to change.

You'll learn how to express action on the page concisely so that the reader can immerse themselves in the world of your play right from the start. Beginning from the point of heightened drama is a great way to grab your reader's attention, helping you make it through to the full read.

Progressing

Progressing is our intermediate-level course and is all about developing a play that already exists in one form or another. Some people have a completed stage play that they want to read and develop; others have just a handful of scenes.

With a focus on reading, we spend most of each 2-hour session working through your weekly progress. Hearing your words out loud is priceless for any playwright, so Progressing offers an opportunity to listen to, discuss, and develop your work in a supportive, online environment.

At the end of the 10-week course, we read the work in front of an online or live audience during Studio Salford Development Week.

Copywriting

Copywriting is our new course, developed by Mike Heath - a professional copywriter (and playwright).

We'll focus on marketing from various perspectives, including blogging, vlogging, and creating high-performing web content.

You'll learn how to navigate the arcane world of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and discover ways of developing a client base that helps bring in an income.

Become a digital nomad and develop a toolset that could help you earn a living as a writer.

Got any questions?

We're always happy to hear from you at WriteForTheStage. If you have any questions, just email us and we'll get back to you asap!

Thanks for reading. :)