What does a Playwright do?

A Playwright writes plays either in their own time or by request from a theatre, theatre company or Producer. They create stories, characters and dialogue for the stage. They collaborate with Directors, Producers and others to bring their scripts to life on stage.

What are the main responsibilities of a Playwright?

To create and write a play
Write the synopsis and character list
To stick to the given brief
To be able to tell a story through written word for the theatre
Working to tight deadlines
Researching and gathering data, facts and/or stories
Liaising with Publishers, Directors and Producers
Redrafting and reworking the play
Attend rehearsals and meetings

You can search for playwriting opportunities from across the theatre industry here

What qualifications do I need to be a Playwright?

While there are no specific qualifications needed to be a Playwright, these courses could be beneficial:

Playwriting
Scriptwriting
Creative Writing
English
Theatre Studies

Having a portfolio of work can really help to showcase your writing abilities.

Here are some subjects that you can study at school which will teach you some useful skills for becoming a Playwright:

Drama/Theatre Studies
English
Creative Writing

Search for training opportunities to help you get into playwriting here

What skills do I need to be a Playwright?

If you are thinking of becoming a Playwright, these can be the desirable skills to be an ideal candidate:

Literature skills
Computer/IT skills
Proof-reading skills
Creative thinking
Ability to listen and understand guidelines
Collaboration skills
Adaptability
Time management
Self-motivation
Researching skills
Observation skills

What does a career in playwriting look like?

As a Playwright starting out you will be spending most of your time alone, creating and writing plays in your spare time. You can then send your plays to theatres or companies who may decide to take your work on and perform it. Once you have experience of your plays being performed you may get the opportunity to be commissioned by a theatre or company to write a play for them. You can also get a Literary Agent and Publisher to get your work published. Some Playwrights are also Actors, Directors and/or Producers too and some Playwrights write alongside the rehearsal process.

How much can a Playwright earn?

Most Playwrights are freelancers. As a freelancer you can negotiate your fee with the company, this would usually be based on how long the run of the show will be, the size of the audience and the ticket prices. If you get your play published then you will earn profits from the sales of your play or the rights to perform it. Learn more about freelancing with our blog How to be a freelancer in theatre.'

The Writers’ Guild UK Theatre rate for a commission for a full-length play – more than 70 minutes – is around £7,769 - £10,880, with ITC rates suggesting a minimum of £9, 176. There will also be additional royalties and a daily rehearsal rate (correct as of May 2024). You could also become a 'writer in residence' for some theatres, which have a larger fee attached and a longer contract.

The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.

You can find Playwriting jobs via The Stage Jobs here