Dr. Doug Cummins
294-2127
Office Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
doug.cummins@furman.edu
Purpose of the Course:
This course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of playwriting. We will study play structure and the formula for writing a play. We will also study the sources for good plays, what makes a good play and what does not make a good play.Conduct of the course:
The principle element in the course will be writing. Be prepared to write every day. Also be prepared to read your work in class and receive feedback on the material.Consult the Playwriting Schedule for specific assignments.
Textbooks:
Playwriting: From Formula to Form. William Missouri Downs and Lou Anne Wright.
Perfrect Ten: Writing and Producing the 10-Minute Play. Gary Garrison.Course Requirements:
1. Regular attendance in class is mandatory. The class will be operated as a workshop. We will read and discuss our work each day.
2. Daily writing assignments. You will be assigned short assignments almost daily, which you may be expected to share with the class. These will also be turned in and graded. I prefer that you turn them in to my email address as attachments to a message and I will comment on them and return them to you by email.
You must use Microsoft Word as your word Processor.
3. Ten minute play – You will write a ten minute play (8-10 pages) that will be due by April 14.
4. One Act Play – You will write a one act play of at least 20 minutes that will be due no later than May 22.
Grade distribution: 30% 30% 40%
Academic Honesty
I expect you to be on your honor that each assignment handed in to me for grade or evaluation will your own. If you consulted outside sources I expect you to fully document those sources. I will not tolerate plagiarism in any form. Please refer to The Helmsman for the University policy on academic honesty.