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This intimate intimate weekend workshop will journey playwrights through a unique exploration of dramatic text through a movement perspective; inspired by the teachings at Ecole Jacques Lecoq.
Playwriting in Movement focuses on how to develop dramatic texts; journeying participants through exercises that bring writing into movement. We will observe, play and write, while also developing our individual writing style and voice.
Exploring the concrete, dramaturgy, neutral mask, physical action, language and writing from the body. Inspired by the Lecoq tradition, Coleen MacPherson, writer and theatre maker, will lead the workshop with the goal of inspiring writers, theatre makers and creative individuals to capture the world in words.
This 8-hour workshop series is divided into four parts and is recommended for both the veteran and the curious closet writer, and is a great way to dive into 2024 with a weekend ritual of writing.
Please email: Coleen.macpherson@gmail.com if you’re interested in enrolling or click to sign up. There are limited spaces, so please sign up soon!
Course Breakdown
Part 1: The Concrete and Observation
We will explore the concrete in our writing through a series of exercise that provoke the writer’s imagination. Beginning in neutral we write purely through observation, searching for specificity. We will work with the principal of beginning from neutrality, working on the body in space and the search for a state of essentializing action. These weeks are spent connecting to the body, to breath and developing a deeper connection to our subconscious voice, while also writing from pure observation.
Part 2: Painting, Poetry and Music
During this part we will be inspired by paintings, poetry and music to stimulate the development of character, voice and scenes. We look at the dynamics of movement in painting and music and see how this can be transposed to the stage. What world does the painting provoke? What space and mood?
Part 3: Forms of Writing / Dramatic Structures
We look at the principles of narration and the strategies to be a teller of stories. How can we drive the story? How can we provoke and play with action? We look at rhythm of language and the counter-mask of character. We explore dramatic forms by analyzing movement and applying this to the structure of a monologue or a play as a whole. We look at other writer’s work and begin to be inspired by the possibilities of form and structure.
Part 4: Editing / Refining / Sharing Work
Throughout the workshop will be sharing work, taking in feedback and doing the real work of the writer: editing, shaping the clay. The class invites students to write actively and engage with each other’s work and give critical feedback so each writer leaves the workshop series with clear goals ahead. The final hour of the class will involve each student sharing their works-in-progress.
When?
Sat August 17 & Sun August 18th, 2024
1:00-5:00 pm @ University of Toronto, St George Campus
$203.68 (tax included)* early bird fee until July 12th 11:59pm
$239 (tax included)* general fee