Duration: Three years, full-time

THE PLAYWRITING PROGRAM AIMS TO REVEAL AND SHAPE EACH WRITER'S UNIQUE VOICE, WITH A LOW TEACHER-TO-STUDENT RATIO THAT ALLOWS FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL RESPONSE TO INDIVIDUAL INTERESTS, NEEDS, STRENGTHS AND CHALLENGES.

STUDENT PROFILE

Listen to Leah Jane Esau and Maureen Gualtieri, 2012 Playwriting program graduates speak of their experiences with the program.
Camera and Video Editor: Michael Slobodian
Photo Credit: Maxime Côté

Watch Leah Jane Esau and Maureen Gualtieri talk about the audition process and learning curve for the Playwriting program.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

NTS Playwriting students have the unique opportunity of working in a conservatory environment alive with creative energy and expression. Students learn and receive inspiration by working alongside students in the Acting, Directing, Set and Costume Design and Production programs.

Guest playwrights, dramaturgs and directors from across Canada teach regularly at the School, giving students access to experienced professionals who understand the realities of contemporary playwriting.

Analyze

Through class work, discussion, critical analysis and exposure to a broad array of styles and forms, this program works to strengthen the intuitive and intellectual faculties required for full and clear self-expression.

Courses in structure and text analysis, adaptation skills, and world and Canadian theatre history broaden and develop the student's knowledge.

Write

The Playwriting Program’s primary focus is writing. Writing workshops and projects permit students to develop and broaden their voices, use language precisely and effectively, refine their ear for dialogue, flesh out character, and discover the rhythms, tone, and style that best reflect their particular sensibility.

Students also learn to structure their time and keep their projects moving forward.

Create

Throughout their three years at the School, students get the opportunity to watch their work evolve and come to life in studio workshops and public readings under the guidance of professional directors. In the final year, the graduating students’ work is celebrated with readings and productions at the Monument-National's Studio Hydro-Québec.