I freelance as a dramaturg, performer, and writer.
Working with Eric Pfeffinger at the Colorado New Play Summit. Photo by John Moore.
Two of those things are obvious, but what do I do as a dramaturg?
It means:
- script consulting
- research (visual, historical, literary)
- textual analysis
- audience outreach, including program notes, pre-show discussions, post-show talk backs, study guides, lobby displays
When I do a script consultation, I read through the play, make notes, and then talk.
- Reading: I’ll ask if the person wants me to keep any specific thing in mind as I read, not to make that the sole focus but to make sure that I’m tracking it for discussion.
- I spend time drawing up notes to help clarify and push my own thinking about your work.
- And then we talk. Talking is not giving you a list of notes; I need to make sure I understand your impetus, vision, and goals for the piece. So I’ll ask what drew you to this piece, and what about it is juicy/compelling/magnetic about it to you. And I ask where you feel it is (rough draft, v. ready for a read, v. ready for a production, etc.). And then I go through ideas, connections, and questions I have, ideally ones that are catalytic for you and your process.
Whether as a one-time consultant for a run-through or someone who follows an entire production, I love my work.
