If you dream of seeing your work onstage, there’s one place you may want to focus on first…and it’s closer than you think.
Your local theatre.
Many writers aim straight for Broadway, Off-Broadway, or big-name festivals.
But guess what?
The playwrights getting chosen in those locations typically already have established reputations.
And you know where those reputations are established?
That’s right. Most playwrights who “make it” get their start by building relationships in their own communities. Local theatres, college programs, and community troupes are where scripts get read, revised, and refined in front of real audiences.
Here’s why starting local is such a smart idea:
You get easier access. Smaller theatres are open to new voices–especially local writers–because there’s less competition. And in many cases, you can actually meet the people making decisions.
You get more feedback. By focusing on local theaters, where you have a much better chance of acceptance, you’ll be more likely to benefit from early readings and small productions. Seeing your work performed in front of live audiences can be one of the most educational experiences a playwright can go through.
You’ll start to build your reputation. The theater community is a small one, which means word travels fast. Directors and actors talk. And remember, a strong local production can lead to regional or even national opportunities.
So don’t put your career on hold waiting for a national competition or famous theater to validate your play.
Get involved with your local community!
Submit to festivals and theaters, organize a reading, connect with local playwright groups–do whatever you can to turn your local theater community into your launchpad.
Remember that just about every major career started small…and yours can too.