The purpose of this biennial workshop is to encourage writers to create artistic theatrical scripts for young audiences. It provides a forum through which each playwright receives constructive criticism and the support of a development team consisting of a professional director and dramaturg. Plays will be cast from professional, experienced, age-appropriate actors from Central Indiana.
The process begins with interaction among the playwright, director and dramaturg prior to the playwright coming to Indianapolis. Plays will be cast by Janet Allen, artistic director of the Indiana Repertory Theatre, and Dorothy Webb, artistic director of the Bonderman in accordance with Equity regulations and recommendations by the playwright and director prior to the beginning of the workshop. Scripts will be shared with age-appropriate young people in the Indianapolis area who during the workshop will be invited to meet with the playwrights and to attend selected rehearsals as well as a final reading of the script. Rehearsal, collaboration and opportunities for script revision will continue throughout the workshop prior to the rehearsed readings at the Symposium.