11/23/2012

How 10 Minute Play Scripts Make Theatre More Accessible

By Dianne Crane


It may seem hard to believe that in the time it takes to read this article you could watch a complete play; many might question what can be achieved in such a short time. In fact since the late Nineteen-seventies this theatre form, best regarded as the dramatic equivalent of a short story, has been gaining in popularity. Today there are thousands of 10 minute play scripts which can be read online and purchased for production.

The concise format of 10 minute play scripts can offer benefits to writers, performers and audiences. Most adverts last for less for thirty seconds, a minute at most and within that time-frame a viewer can be so convinced of the advantages of the item being sold that he will choose to buy it. However odd it may initially seem to attempt to tell a complete tale in less than a quarter of an hour many authors have demonstrated that it is entirely possible.

In schools, drama is often used as a way of encouraging students to look at societal issues, many short plays reflect these topics so are a good choice for youth productions. Younger people usually appreciate the succinctness of these works which tend to hold their attention better that more long-winded theatre. For the teacher the advantages of something which can be read, discussed and performed in a single lesson are obvious.

In small amateur repertory companies where the members are likely to have busy working lives it can be difficult to get everyone together. By their very nature these plays tend to have small casts so it becomes possible to split the company down into sub -groups who can gather to rehearse a single work. At the same time the company as a whole can be working on several productions, this offers the opportunity for everyone to take a leading role at some stage.

Given the current difficult financial conditions both professional and amateur groups are aware of the need to keep expenses to a minimum. Short works of drama are not usually reliant on expensive costumes or complicated effects. With the emphasis on direct, intense storytelling and simple sets these plays are suited to the demands made by a tight budget.

Experienced authors know that it can be more difficult to write concisely than at length, many have experimented with the ten minute format where every action and line of speech has to drive the story forward. Conversely, this sort of work appeals to novice writers who might find the idea of producing a full length piece overwhelming. The form encourages the development of writing skills, indeed there have been several competitions where new writers can submit their work.

Some people find conventional three act plays inaccessible, they are often seen as somewhat academic and daunting. By their very nature short performances are somehow less formal and threatening. It may be for this reason that audiences who would not usually attend a theatre production have responded to these works so positively.

Some companies who specialize in 10 minute play scripts feature advice for would-be authors on their websites. Many theatre groups run short courses or workshops where inexperienced people can take part in a production, which could range from farce to tragedy. These concise works are a modern approach to the performing arts which bring them into the world of individuals who would probably not otherwise experience them.




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