Guillain, Charlotte. Writing and Staging Real-Life Plays.

Guillain, Charlotte.  Writing and Staging Real-Life Plays.  Capstone/Heinemann  2016      48p   $24.49  ISBN 978-1-4846-2771-6  Series: Writing and Staging Plays  elem/ms  Nonfiction  VG-BN  

All elements of writing and staging a play about real-life events are covered: how to write authentically, do set and costume design, and perform well. There is a lot of practical advice for novice writers and those interested in a theatrical career. It is best suited for students in grades 4-8 because of the illustrations: if the illustrations included people of all age groups from elementary through high school, it would appeal to all age groups. However, most of the color photographs include only younger people, and thus may not easily fit into high-school collections. Practical ideas and tips are included for writing a play, from the story-map stage through the creation of authentic dialogue.  Other topics pertain to becoming a director, audition criteria, set and costume design, and other practical tips to make opening night a success.  This book can be used to teach common-core standards related to understanding the structure of play dialogue and stage directions, as well as writing authentically for specific time periods. A glossary, an index and a list of reading for further information complete the book.   

Summary: All elements of writing and staging a play about real-life events are covered: how to write authentically, do set and costume design, and perform well. There is a lot of practical advice for novice writers and those interested in a theatrical career.

Drama, Playwriting                                                --Lois McNicol