HOW TO WRITE A SCRIPT PHYSICALLY ON THE PAGE

KEY CONCEPTS IN SCRIPTWRITING

Difference Between Structure and Format

  • Structure: Refers to the breakdown of plot points and the overall story of the play.
  • Format: Refers to the visual representation of the play on the page, including how dialogue and stage directions are laid out.

PUBLISHED SCRIPTS

  • Most scripts exhibit a similar appearance after publication.
  • The playwright can express their unique voice through the layout and format of the script on the page.

EXAMPLE: "IT'S ONLY A PLAY" BY TERRENCE MCNALLY

  • Edition: Broadway Edition
  • Publisher: Dramatists Play Service Inc.

SETTING AND SCENE DESCRIPTION

ACT ONE: Setting of Julia Budder's Bedroom

  • Description: A large bedroom with a king-sized bed, chaise lounge, several armchairs, a television set, bookcase, and a desk equipped with multiple telephones.
    • Doors: One leads to a bathroom, and the other to the hallway.
    • Windows: Two windows with drapes drawn, facing the street.
  • Threshold Sounds: Party noises from downstairs signify a gathering taking place.
    • Sounds include voices, laughter, and piano music.
    • Room significance: The bedroom is an escape from the party's chaos.
    • Winter coats piled on the bed, indicating many guests.

Character Introduction: Gus Head

  • Entrance: Gus enters wearing a dinner jacket and carrying coats.
  • Action: He tosses coats and proceeds to make a phone call, indicating an eager and energetic personality.
Dialogue Snippet: Interaction with Mr. Piper
  • GUS:
    • Excitedly reports to Mr. Piper about meeting Al Pacino and other celebrities at the party.
    • Expresses appreciation for the opportunity to be involved in theater.

CHARACTER INTERACTIONS AND DEVELOPMENT

Introduction of James Wicker

  • Entrance: James Wicker engages in a conversation as he arrives from the hallway.
  • Welcoming Expression: He conveys excitement about the party but indicates the crowd made communication difficult.

Dialogue Exchange: Gus and James

  • GUS: Questions if James has seen the play.
  • JAMES: Responds humorously, noting he's simply a guest.
  • Professional Background:
    • James identifies himself as James Wicker, also known as Jimmy.
    • Discusses his experience as a temporary actor versus Gus's aspirations.

CHARACTER BIOGRAPHIES

Gus Head

  • Occupation: Acts as a temporary helper at the party.
  • Self-Identification: Describes himself as an "interdisciplinary theatre artist."
  • Skills include acting, singing, dancing, comedy, performance art, miming, and operating heavy machinery.
  • Favorite Role: Konstantin from Chekhov's The Seagull.

James Wicker

  • Occupation: An established actor and participant in a successful television series, "Out on a Limb."
  • Awards: Received five Best Actor Emmy Award nominations.
  • Background: References a long friendship with playwright Austin and past experiences in not-for-profit theater.

ANALYSIS OF SCRIPT FORMAT

Formatting of Script Before Publication

  • Reference: There are established formats that publishers like Samuel French and Dramatists require.
  • Objective: Writers must reformat their scripts according to specific guidelines for submission and publication.

Elements Observed in Script on the Page

  • Key Features:
    • Page numbers, character names, stage directions, and dialogue.
    • Stage Directions: Centered and demonstrate character movement or emotional cues.
    • Character Names: Centered and in all capital letters.
    • Dialogue Presentation: Runs across the page from left to right.

Special Considerations

  • Stage Directions: Should provide setting, timing, and emotional guidance but not dictate actions outside the narrative or details irrelevant to the story.
    • Avoid statements like "crosses to center stage" unless artistically crucial to the plot.

FINAL TOUCHES IN SCRIPTWRITING

Closing a Script

  • Ending Note: Always conclude the script with a notation: "THE END" to signal the closure of the narrative.