Monday, November 19, 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.

For amateur drama groups where the individuals involved have many other obligations one powerful advantage of these plays is that they usually have small casts. This allows different members of a company to be involved in different pieces and can make rehearsal planning much easier. Working on several scripts at the same time also allows leading roles to alternate between the members of the group.

In short productions the most important thing is a strong story line, communicated very directly and simply. These works do not tend to require complicated sets or expensive costumes. This means that costs are kept to a minimum which, given difficult economic circumstances is of great benefit to either professional or recreational drama groups.

Inexperienced writers often find the idea of producing a lengthy work intimidating; the ten minute format is far less daunting. Several competitions inviting submissions of new dramas have been initiated so this type of art encourages the development of new talent. More experienced authors recognize the challenge of developing a theme in a limited time frame-work and many of them have also written pieces in this genre.

Short pays are seen as far less formal and intimidating than more classical performances. Conventional theatre is often perceived as too intellectual for any but the most highly educated and cultured. These concise productions have been well received by audiences who would otherwise shun the performing arts.

Drama, comedy and tragedy have all been written as 10 minute play scripts. Advice for authors wishing to try their hand at such pieces is freely available on the internet and theatre groups run workshops where members of the public who may never have been involved in drama productions can participate in a performance. This relatively modern innovation brings the theatre arts into the realm of individuals who might otherwise never explore them.




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