If you have ever wanted to write for the stage, Playwriting 101 will teach you the fundamentals of stage craft - AND get you writing a play.

Every week you'll meet for informative lectures, writing exercises and discussions about your work.

You'll learn the language of theatre from a pro.

You'll explore how to structure a story for a play, how to develop your characters, build an imaginary world and discover the story engine that drives everything.

As part of the course, you'll be working on a new play and can expect to leave with a completed piece of work. Gary is a generous tutor who will guide you through the process and give you friendly, insightful feedback.

NB: Numbers are strictly limited to 12 participants.

Your Tutor - Gary Henderson

Gary is an award-winning New Zealand playwright , dramaturg, director and theatre writing teacher whose work is produced and published locally and internationally . He has taught courses at Unitec, AUT, Auckland University, and the International Institute of Modern Letters at Victoria University.

His most recent premiere was his acclaimed sci-fi thriller “Shepherd” at the Court Theatre in 2015. His latest two plays are The “Breath of Silence” for the Court Theatre and an adaptation “Things That Matter” for Auckland Theatre Company – opening at the ASB Theatre August 2021. (Download Full Bio HERE)

"I learned everything I know about writing plays from Gary - his teaching is clear and so practical which is one of the reasons we invited him to be a guest tutor. In fact my lastest play "The Campervan" was born during one of his excellent classes." Kathryn Burnett ( Mike & Virginia, Bowled Over, The Campervan.)

And if you'd like to pay for this course in installments - no problem - get in touch. hello@bgww.co.nz

How This Course Works:

Over 8 weeks Gary Henderson delivers a weekly two hour class at 7pm via Zoom. Need to miss a class or want to recap? You'll have access to a recording to watch on demand whenever suits.

Course Schedule:

• The language of theatre and finding a story
• Characters - the other way of making people!
• Conflict - the duel, the engine of your story
• Building it so it won’t fall down - story, plot, structure
• Going live - action and dialogue
• It’s perfect - now make it better. Facing the second draft
• Say it without saying it: exposition and subtext
• Building your world and getting it on in the real one

7pm every Monday night for 8 weeks. (Starting 28 June)

Got questions? Get in touch.

Who is this workshop for?

• Aspiring playwrights who want to learn how to write for the stage.
• Aspiring playwrights who have an play idea but not sure how to start writing it.
• Newer playwrights looking to up-skill their stage craft.
• Writers of other mediums who want to explore writing for the stage.
• NB: Participants will be writing a new piece of theatre during this course rather than working on an existing piece.

And if you'd prefer to pay in installments - we can help. Get in touch - hello@bgww.co.nz

What People Are Saying About BGWW Writing Workshops

“I’ve gone from being too intimidated to write a scene, to feeling equipped to take on a feature! Thanks so much!” – Angus Dreaver

“Kathryn's screenwriting workshop was brilliant. I loved learning from her and would sit at the front of the class, furiously jotting down notes like a nerd. Kathryn has a natural ability to connect with an audience. She teaches with patience and humour and I'd recommend the workshop for anyone wanting to learn more about screenwriting.” Jaquie Brown – Presenter, Actor, Screenwriter

“Congrats on a great workshop. I’ve done a few and think yours is by far one of the most comprehensive. Really enjoyed it - you really know your stuff. " - Scott Butler - Advertising Director

“Kathryn’s course is a must for any newbie. It was a fast, furious and funny two days – I can’t wait to get started on my first feature.” Eryn Wilson – Actor/Writer/Director

"Kathryn Burnett is the bombdiggity. She brings amazing experience, intelligence, and passion to her teaching. She has a comprehensive understanding of movies, cinema history, and storytelling technique, and is effective and engaging when sharing that knowledge with her students. Kathryn is to storytelling tutors as Carlos the Jackal is to international assassins. I can't recommend her highly enough." Steve Barr - screenwriter, producer, and development executive

“Fantastic array of information. It’s so helpful to get to look “under the bonnet” of a film and see all the moving parts. This will save hours of time in avoiding the pitfalls.” Cindy Mullins – Publishing Agent

"Loved it! Kathryn gets straight to the point and gives clear, practical advice about screenwriting. She demystifies the process." Rebecca Barry Hill - Journalist/Screenwriter

FAQs:

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

Age minimum is 16.(But get in touch if you'd like to discuss!)

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

If the event is cancelled by organiser, participants will receive a full and automatic refund. If cancelled by the participant - cancellation must be 14 days prior to the event to receive a full refund. If cancellation is less than 14 days - a 50% fee refund is available at the facilitator's discretion.

What do I need to bring?

Participants will require pen & paper, computer and good internet connection.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Transferrable to another person - yes. Another event - no. (But please check with us.)

I’m interested in writing screenplays, short films and web series – is this for me?

No, our foundation screenwriting course will work better for you. (Check it out)

I am interested in writing for TV is this for me?

No, we have other courses that willwork better for you. (Check them out)

Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Email us, right here - hello@bgww.co.nz