One of my best friends from high school is a playwright, so I suppose I have some first-hand knowledge of how tough that gig can be. Screenwriting? Totally different bag; sure, it's tough to get work in that genre, but it's possible. Getting your work produced in the shrinking world of theater ... well, that's a bit more challenging.
Which is why I love First Run so much - they have dedicated themselves to helping local playwrights get their work read, and, hopefully, produced. If you want to get a sneak preview of their upcoming season, check out their annual reading festival next month; you can't beat the price: "free and open to the public."
Here are all the details:
"First Run will present the six finalists from this year's script submissions in our 7th Annual Play Reading Festival. The Festival will take place in the Thomas Hunter Theater at DeSmet Jesuit High School, 233 N New Ballas Road, Creve Coeur MO, February 12, 14, and 15. There will be a short discussion after each play and audience participation is strongly encouraged. First Run will select productions for its upcoming season from these finalists.
Reading Times
Thursday February 12 7pm “Devine’s Grace” by Richard LaViolette
Saturday February 14 10am “The Playing Ground” by John Wolbers
2pm “Better” by Margaret Stamell
7pm “Losing Mogadishu” by Gregory Carr
Sunday February 15 1pm “And it shall be forgiven..” by Jason Slavik
6pm “You Know I Can’t Eat Buffalo Meat When There’s a Terrorist on the Loose” by Mario Farwell
For more information contact First Run Theatre by phone 314-352-5114, email info@firstruntheatre.com, or our web site at www.firstruntheatre.com.
