Moving Forward by Writing and Staging Short Plays

Big n’ little

As Literary Manager at the Finborough Theatre, I’m often asked by early career/emerging playwrights what is the best path to a full production in a London theatre. There’re lots of opinions on this matter, but getting your work on at the various scratch and shorts nights in your local area is commonly thought to be a good way to start, for the following reasons:

A) A short allows you to see how a concept/technique/form works with an audience, before you commit it to full length form.

B) Your work may be seen by industry figures such as theatre scouts, agents and producers.

C) Writing shorts will further hone and polish your craft.

D) You’ll build up your portfolio of writing credits.

E) Writing credits give you an edge when applying for bursaries, residencies, funding etc..

F) Having a short on the go, as you write your main project, provides a healthy displacement activity.

G) It facilitates networking opportunities and allows you to build relationships with theatres/directors/performers and theatre people in your area.

H) Having a short accepted for such an event, encourages and motivates.