The aim of this article is to explore how the multiple perspectives offered by an artographer's lens contribute to three literacy events generated by "writing play" activities for children three to five years old. These events are part of a more comprehensive study of emergent literacy in writing play workshops, focusing on writing in…

Outlines the inception and evolution of "The Bonderman," a workshop devoted to the development of new theatre works for young audiences. Explains that the Bonderman is committed to: the development of the playwright; the development of the individual play; and the ongoing dialogue about the creation of new work for young audiences. Describes the…

Discusses the author's experience as a playwright and teacher of public readings of early drafts of new plays. Explains the Five Step Model for these readings as follows: prepare the playwright before the reading; prepare the audience with a precurtain speech; after the reading, establish discussion ground rules; remember these guidelines during…

Provides the history of the Sundance Institute, which has grown to help many artists in hopes of contributing unique and original voices to the culture of the country. Describes the present structure of the institute and details the work of the 2002 lab. Notes that as the Sundance Theatre Lab continues to bring theatre artists of all disciplines…

The Young Playwrights' Festival is a project of the Dramatists Guild, New York City, for young writers aged 8-18. This article discusses the Festival of 10 plays written by children and presented professionally at New York City's Circle Rep Theatre and the playwriting workshops for children taught by project director Gerald Chapman. (PD)

Explains the creation of the New Visions/New Voices festival which focuses attention on developing new scripts for young audiences. Notes that unlike other playwriting programs, New Visions does not require a complete script for application. Outlines the selection, casting, rehearsal process, dramaturg involvement, and post-reading discussions of…

Argues that in Poland, the Soviet Union, and in much of eastern Europe, creators can utilize strategies and take advantage of various policies that make theatre a relatively free medium for political expression. And the public, starved for such expression, naturally turns to the theatre, frequently making it an important political institution.…

Describes a classroom program in which students adapted and then produced a play based on the adolescent novel "The Chocolate War." Notes group improvisation strategies for adapting internal monologue to dialogue. Argues the advantages of such a project over class discussion and book reports. (JG)