Introduction To Playwriting – ONLINE (Spring Term)

Introduction to Playwriting is a dynamic six-week course designed for beginners and emerging writers who want to explore the fundamentals of writing for the stage. Through weekly 2-hour workshops of writing exercises and guided discussion, participants will learn how to generate ideas, craft compelling characters, structure scenes, and shape their stories. No prior experience is required – just curiosity, imagination, and a willingness to experiment.

Liv Ello (He/They) is a writer, performer and teaching artist with experience developing new work for theatre and guiding writers at all stages of their creative journey. Their plays have been produced or workshopped with companies including Soho Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, Cambridge Junction and Battersea Arts Centre; and they have taught writing for performance, dramatic storytelling and comedy and cabaret devising at Collective Acting Studio, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and London Performance Studios. Their approach centres on curiosity, playfulness, and the belief that everyone has a story worth telling. They love helping new writers and theatre makers discover their voice and bring their ideas to life on the stage.

Course Content

Week 1 — What Is a Play? Foundations & Inspiration

A lively introduction to the core elements of dramatic storytelling and how to generate ideas for the stage.

Week 2 — Character & Voice

Learn to create dynamic characters with clear desires and distinct voices that drive your play forward.

Week 3 — Dialogue & Subtext

Explore how to craft purposeful dialogue and reveal meaning through what’s said – and what’s left unsaid.

Week 4 — Goal & Conflict

Understand how character goals and obstacles shape action, tension, and dramatic momentum.

Week 5 — The World of the Play: Setting, Form & Theatricality

Discover how setting, style, and theatrical choices build a vivid and engaging world for your audience.

Week 6 — Structure & Scene Crafting

Break down the mechanics of effective scenes and learn how to shape your play with clarity and momentum.

We are passionate about working with actors from underrepresented groups and we will always seek to break down barriers to access in professional actor-training. Scholarships are available for those who are facing challenging circumstances. If you want to learn more about how to apply, email reception@collectiveactingstudio.co.uk