Class Type: The Play Class Level: All Experience Levels Welcome

When: Sunday, November 22 2:30pm - 5:00pm CT 

(12:30pm PT, 1:30pm MT, 3:30pm ET)

Where: Online via Zoom, check out this quick video on the process.

Structure: Presentation and discussion

Participants must register to join this class, Sign Up at the bottom of the page. 

Most people are frightened of audience participation, but playwrights often reach for this blunt tool as a way to engage our unique medium in ways that incorporate the audience's presence and unpredictability. In this class with McKnight National Residency & Commission playwright Gracie Gardner, we'll talk about shows that use a more delicate method in this endeavor: one I call audience activation. We'll discuss specific plays and productions that allow each audience member to have a unique sensory journey that enhances revelation without putting someone on the spot. By taking responsibility for the environment, we'll discuss ways playwrights can be aware of individuals' sensitivities, abilities, and curiosities, and endeavor to go beyond chaos by making room for the unexpected creativity of the crowd.

This is the class for you if you:

• Create stronger connections with your audience
• Want to invite audiences to engage with your play
• Craft safe and bold interactions

PostScript: Gracie's play Pussy Sludge was a 2017 Relentless Award Winner, check out this write up in the New York Times. 

 Sign Up Below! 

Questions? Email Membership & Development Coordinator, Alayna Barnes, at alaynab@pwcenter.org