10.2 Feedback from trusted readers
11 min read•august 21, 2024
Feedback from trusted readers is a vital part of the playwriting process. It helps writers identify strengths and weaknesses, gain new perspectives, and enhance their creative vision. By seeking out and incorporating constructive criticism, playwrights can elevate their scripts and increase their chances of success.
Preparing for feedback involves selecting appropriate readers, setting clear expectations, and providing specific questions or prompts. Receiving feedback gracefully requires an open mind, the ability to separate criticism from personal attacks, and a willingness to ask clarifying questions. Evaluating and implementing feedback effectively is crucial for refining a script through multiple drafts.
Value of feedback
- Feedback is a crucial component of the playwriting process that helps writers identify areas for improvement and gain fresh insights into their work
- Receiving constructive criticism from trusted readers can elevate the quality of a script and enhance its potential for success in the competitive world of theater
- Regularly seeking out and incorporating feedback demonstrates a commitment to the craft of playwriting and a desire for continuous growth as an artist
Identifying strengths and weaknesses
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- Feedback can highlight the most effective elements of a script (compelling characters, snappy dialogue, unique premise)
- It can also pinpoint areas that need further development ( issues, unclear motivations, unresolved plot points)
- Readers may catch inconsistencies or plot holes that the writer overlooked due to their close proximity to the material
- Feedback can help writers assess whether their intended themes and messages are coming across clearly to the audience
Gaining new perspectives
- Receiving feedback from readers with diverse backgrounds and experiences can offer valuable insights into how different audiences may interpret and respond to a script
- Readers may identify potential issues related to representation, cultural sensitivity, or accessibility that the writer hadn't considered
- Feedback can challenge writers to think beyond their own biases and assumptions and approach their work with a more inclusive mindset
- Hearing multiple perspectives can help writers make informed decisions about which aspects of their script to prioritize in the revision process
Enhancing creative vision
- Feedback can spark new ideas and inspire writers to take their scripts in unexpected and exciting directions
- Readers may suggest alternative solutions to creative challenges (reworking a problematic scene, combining two underdeveloped characters) that align with the writer's overall vision
- Constructive criticism can motivate writers to dig deeper into their characters' psyches, flesh out their fictional worlds, and take creative risks
- Ultimately, feedback should empower writers to realize the full potential of their artistic vision while also considering the needs and expectations of their audience
Sources of feedback
Friends and family
- Seeking feedback from friends and family can be a good starting point for writers who are nervous about sharing their work with strangers
- However, it's important to choose readers who can offer constructive criticism rather than just praise or validation
- Friends and family may be hesitant to give honest feedback for fear of hurting the writer's feelings or damaging their relationship
- Their opinions may also be biased by their personal connection to the writer and not necessarily representative of a broader audience
Writing groups or workshops
- Joining a writing group or workshop can provide writers with a built-in community of peers who are committed to helping each other improve their craft
- These groups often have established guidelines and protocols for giving and receiving feedback, which can create a safe and supportive environment for sharing work
- Members may have different levels of experience and expertise, so it's important to seek out groups that align with the writer's goals and skill level
- Some groups may focus on a specific genre (comedy writing) or format (10-minute plays), while others may be more general in scope
Mentors or industry professionals
- Seeking feedback from experienced mentors or industry professionals (dramaturgs, directors, producers) can be especially valuable for writers who are hoping to take their work to the next level
- These individuals can offer insights into the practical realities of producing a play (budget constraints, technical limitations) and help writers tailor their scripts for specific markets or audiences
- They may also have connections to other industry professionals (agents, artistic directors) who can help advance the writer's career
- However, it's important to approach these relationships with professionalism and respect for the mentor's time and expertise, and to be open to constructive criticism and feedback
Preparing for feedback
Selecting appropriate readers
- When seeking feedback, it's important to choose readers who are well-suited to provide constructive criticism on the specific script in question
- Consider factors such as the 's familiarity with the genre or subject matter, their level of playwriting experience, and their ability to give honest and thoughtful feedback
- It can be helpful to seek out readers with diverse perspectives and backgrounds to get a range of opinions and insights
- Avoid choosing readers who may have a personal bias or agenda that could color their feedback (ex. a reader who is fundamentally opposed to the script's political message)
Setting clear expectations
- Before sharing a script with a reader, it's important to communicate clear expectations around the feedback process
- Let the reader know what stage the script is at (first draft, final polish) and what kind of feedback would be most helpful at this juncture (big-picture notes, line-level edits)
- Establish a timeline for when the reader should aim to provide their feedback, and make sure it's a realistic timeframe given the length and complexity of the script
- Consider sharing the script in a format that allows for easy commenting and annotation (Google Docs, Microsoft Word) to facilitate a clear and organized feedback process
Providing specific questions or prompts
- In addition to general feedback, it can be helpful to provide readers with specific questions or prompts to guide their reading and response
- These questions might focus on particular areas of concern for the writer (Is the ending satisfying? Are the characters' motivations clear?) or on elements that are central to the script's success (Does the dialogue feel authentic to the time period? Is the pacing effective?)
- Specific questions can help readers hone in on the most important aspects of the script and provide targeted feedback that is actionable and useful
- Prompts can also help writers identify blind spots in their own writing and gain insight into how different readers are experiencing and interpreting the script
Receiving feedback gracefully
Maintaining an open mind
- When receiving feedback, it's essential to approach the process with an open and receptive mindset
- Remember that readers are offering their opinions and insights in the spirit of helping to improve the script, not to attack or undermine the writer's abilities
- Try to set aside any or ego and really listen to what the reader is saying, even if it's difficult to hear
- Keep in mind that not all feedback will resonate or feel applicable, and that's okay - the writer can ultimately choose which suggestions to incorporate and which to set aside
Separating criticism from personal attacks
- It's important to remember that feedback on a script is not a reflection of the writer's worth as a person or an artist
- Try to separate criticism of the work from feelings of personal attack or rejection
- If a reader's feedback feels overly harsh or personal, it's okay to set boundaries or even end the feedback relationship if necessary
- Focus on the constructive aspects of the feedback and look for opportunities to learn and grow as a writer
Asking clarifying questions
- If a reader's feedback is unclear or confusing, don't be afraid to ask for clarification or specific examples
- Asking follow-up questions can help the writer better understand the reader's perspective and identify concrete steps for revision
- It can also be helpful to paraphrase the feedback in your own words to ensure that you've understood it correctly
- Remember that feedback is a dialogue, not a one-way street - it's okay to engage in discussion and debate with the reader to fully explore their ideas and suggestions
Evaluating feedback objectively
Recognizing patterns and consistencies
- When receiving feedback from multiple readers, look for patterns and consistencies in their comments and suggestions
- If several readers are pointing out the same issues or areas for improvement, it's likely that these are important aspects of the script to focus on in revision
- Keep in mind that not all readers will agree on every point, and that's okay - the writer can use their judgment to determine which feedback feels most resonant and useful
- Create a system for organizing and synthesizing feedback (spreadsheet, notes document) to help identify overarching themes and priorities
Distinguishing subjective vs objective opinions
- It's important to recognize that not all feedback is created equal - some comments may be based on the reader's subjective opinions or personal preferences, while others may be more objective and rooted in craft or industry standards
- Consider the source of the feedback and the reader's level of expertise when weighing the validity of their suggestions
- Look for feedback that is specific, actionable, and tied to concrete examples from the script, rather than vague or general comments
- Trust your own instincts and artistic vision, but also be open to feedback that challenges your assumptions or pushes you outside your comfort zone
Aligning feedback with personal goals
- Ultimately, the writer must evaluate feedback in the context of their own goals and intentions for the script
- Consider which suggestions align with your overall vision for the piece and which ones feel like a departure or distraction
- Think about the intended audience for the script and whether the feedback is helping to tailor the work for that specific market or demographic
- Don't be afraid to set aside feedback that doesn't resonate or feel authentic to your voice and style as a writer - remember that you are the ultimate authority on your own artistic creation
Implementing feedback effectively
Prioritizing key areas for improvement
- Once you've gathered and evaluated feedback from multiple sources, it's important to prioritize which areas of the script to focus on in the revision process
- Consider which issues are most critical to the script's overall effectiveness and impact (major structural problems, underdeveloped characters) and tackle those first
- Look for "low-hanging fruit" - smaller, more easily achievable (cutting repetitive dialogue, clarifying stage directions) that can help build momentum and confidence
- Create a revision plan that breaks down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and set realistic goals and deadlines for each phase of the process
Making strategic revisions
- When implementing feedback, it's important to approach revisions with a strategic and purposeful mindset
- Avoid the temptation to make changes just for the sake of change - every revision should be in service of strengthening the script and aligning it with your artistic goals
- Consider the ripple effect of each change - how will altering one scene or character impact the rest of the script?
- Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different options, but also be willing to backtrack or pivot if a particular revision isn't working
- Keep track of your changes and save multiple drafts of the script so that you can easily revert back to earlier versions if needed
Preserving original vision and voice
- While feedback can be invaluable in improving a script, it's important not to lose sight of your original vision and unique voice as a writer
- Be selective about which suggestions to incorporate and which to set aside - don't feel obligated to take every piece of feedback on board
- Look for ways to address readers' concerns or questions while still staying true to your artistic sensibilities and intentions
- Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to take creative risks or make bold choices that align with your vision for the piece
- Remember that the revision process is an opportunity to deepen and clarify your original ideas, not to abandon them altogether
Dealing with conflicting feedback
Assessing credibility of sources
- When receiving conflicting feedback from multiple readers, it's important to consider the credibility and expertise of each source
- Give more weight to feedback from experienced industry professionals, mentors, or peers whose opinions you trust and respect
- Consider the reader's familiarity with your work and your artistic goals - are they evaluating the script on its own terms or imposing their own biases and expectations?
- Look for readers who can provide specific, actionable feedback grounded in craft and technique, rather than vague or subjective opinions
Trusting artistic instincts
- Ultimately, you are the expert on your own artistic vision and intentions for the script
- While feedback can be helpful in identifying areas for improvement or exploration, it's important not to let external opinions overshadow your own creative instincts
- If a particular piece of feedback doesn't resonate or feel authentic to your voice and style, trust your gut and set it aside
- Remember that playwriting is a deeply personal and subjective art form - what works for one reader may not work for another, and that's okay
Seeking additional opinions if needed
- If you're feeling stuck or unsure how to reconcile conflicting feedback, it can be helpful to seek out additional opinions from trusted readers or industry professionals
- Look for individuals who can provide a fresh perspective on the script and help you see the work from a new angle
- Consider joining a new writing group or workshop to get exposure to a wider range of viewpoints and experiences
- Be open to the possibility that conflicting feedback may point to deeper issues or challenges in the script that need further exploration and development
- Remember that seeking additional feedback is not a sign of weakness or lack of confidence in your work - it's a proactive step towards improving your craft and creating the strongest possible version of your script
Benefits of iterative feedback
Refining work through multiple drafts
- Receiving feedback is not a one-and-done process - it's an ongoing, iterative cycle that helps writers continually refine and improve their work
- Each round of feedback and revision can help identify new areas for growth and development, as well as illuminate progress and successes along the way
- Embrace the idea of writing as a journey rather than a destination - each draft is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the characters, themes, and world of the play
- Celebrate the small victories and breakthroughs that come with each revision, and trust that the script will continue to evolve and improve over time
Developing resilience and adaptability
- The feedback process can be challenging and emotionally taxing, but it's also an opportunity to build resilience and adaptability as a writer
- Receiving critical feedback can help you develop a thicker skin and learn not to take criticism personally
- Navigating conflicting opinions and suggestions can help you become more flexible and open-minded in your approach to revision
- Embracing the iterative nature of playwriting can help you develop a growth mindset and see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement
Cultivating a growth mindset
- Ultimately, the feedback process is about cultivating a growth mindset as a writer - a belief that your skills and abilities can always be developed and expanded through hard work and dedication
- Approach feedback with curiosity and a willingness to learn, rather than defensiveness or resistance
- Celebrate the progress you've made with each draft, but also remain open to the possibility of further growth and improvement
- Remember that even the most successful and accomplished playwrights continue to seek out feedback and revise their work throughout their careers
- Embrace the idea that playwriting is a lifelong journey of learning, experimentation, and self-discovery - and that feedback is an essential tool for helping you along the way
Key Terms to Review (18)
Active listening: Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully focusing, understanding, and responding to a speaker in a way that promotes effective dialogue. It requires not only hearing the words but also being engaged with the speaker's emotions and intentions, fostering a deeper level of connection. This skill is essential for providing constructive feedback and receiving critique, as it ensures that both the speaker's and listener's perspectives are acknowledged and valued.
Character development feedback: Character development feedback refers to the constructive criticism and insights provided by trusted readers regarding the portrayal, depth, and evolution of characters in a narrative. This type of feedback helps writers refine their characters, ensuring they are relatable, believable, and contribute effectively to the story’s overall arc. Trusted readers can provide unique perspectives that may highlight inconsistencies, motivations, or emotional connections that the writer may have overlooked.
Clarity of Theme: Clarity of theme refers to the clear and focused expression of the central idea or message within a narrative or play. It ensures that the audience can easily understand the core concepts and emotions being conveyed, which allows for a deeper connection to the characters and storyline. A well-defined theme can significantly enhance the impact of the work, making it resonate with audiences on multiple levels.
Comment cards: Comment cards are feedback tools used to gather responses and opinions from readers, typically after a reading or performance. They serve as a structured way for trusted readers to provide insights on elements like character development, dialogue, and overall engagement, helping playwrights refine their work based on constructive criticism.
Critical questioning: Critical questioning is the process of analyzing and evaluating the content, structure, and intent of a piece of writing or performance by asking probing questions. This approach encourages deeper engagement with the material, fostering an environment where feedback can be constructive and insightful, ultimately leading to enhanced creativity and refinement of ideas.
Defensiveness: Defensiveness is a psychological response characterized by protecting oneself from perceived criticism or threat, often leading to a refusal to accept feedback. This behavior can hinder personal growth and improvement, especially in creative processes, where openness to critique is vital. In playwriting, defensiveness can prevent writers from engaging with feedback that could enhance their work and result in lost opportunities for development.
Dramaturgical Analysis: Dramaturgical analysis is a method used to examine the structure and elements of a play or performance to understand how they contribute to the overall narrative and thematic impact. This approach focuses on the interactions between characters, the context of their actions, and the way the play is staged, allowing for a deeper insight into the intentions of the playwright and the emotional responses elicited from the audience.
Facilitator: A facilitator is someone who helps guide a group through a process, making it easier for participants to share their ideas and feedback. In creative environments, a facilitator encourages open dialogue, fosters collaboration, and ensures that everyone's voice is heard, which is crucial during feedback sessions, reader discussions, and staged readings.
Feedback forms: Feedback forms are structured tools used to gather opinions, critiques, and suggestions from readers regarding a piece of writing. These forms facilitate constructive communication between the writer and the reader, allowing writers to refine their work based on insights and perspectives from trusted individuals.
Pacing: Pacing refers to the speed at which a story unfolds, influencing how the audience experiences tension, emotional depth, and character development. It is essential in maintaining audience engagement by balancing fast-paced action with slower moments of reflection, which can directly affect crucial plot points such as the climax and denouement.
Prioritizing revisions: Prioritizing revisions is the process of determining which changes to a script are most critical and should be addressed first to enhance the overall quality of the play. This involves assessing feedback from trusted readers and deciding which suggestions will have the greatest impact on character development, plot structure, and emotional resonance.
Read-through: A read-through is a rehearsal process where actors read the script aloud together, focusing on understanding the material and characters. This practice helps to create a shared vision for the production, allowing everyone involved to discuss their interpretations and ideas. It serves as a foundational step in developing the play, providing an opportunity for the cast and creative team to establish a clear narrative direction.
Reader: In the context of playwriting, a reader refers to an individual who engages with a script to evaluate its content, structure, and overall impact. Readers can be directors, actors, or literary managers who provide insights that shape the development of a play. Their perspectives are essential for understanding how the script communicates with its audience and how effectively it translates to performance.
Revisions: Revisions refer to the process of reworking and improving a play by making changes to its dialogue, structure, and characters to enhance its effectiveness and clarity. This ongoing process is crucial for playwrights as it allows them to refine their work based on feedback and production experiences, ultimately leading to a more polished and impactful final piece.
Structural feedback: Structural feedback refers to the specific insights and critiques that focus on the framework and organization of a piece of writing, particularly in playwriting. This type of feedback helps writers understand how their work functions on a structural level, including elements like plot development, character arcs, pacing, and thematic consistency. By concentrating on these aspects, structural feedback enables writers to refine their scripts, ensuring they resonate with audiences and convey their intended messages effectively.
Synthesis of comments: Synthesis of comments refers to the process of combining feedback from multiple trusted readers to create a cohesive understanding of a piece of writing. This involves analyzing, integrating, and prioritizing the suggestions and observations provided by these readers to improve the work while ensuring that the writer's original vision is preserved. This process is essential for refining drafts and enhancing the overall quality of a script or play.
Vulnerability: Vulnerability is the state of being exposed to the possibility of being harmed, either emotionally or physically. In creative work, it often involves taking risks to express personal truths or raw emotions, which can enhance the authenticity and relatability of a piece. It is an essential element in storytelling, as it engages audiences by creating suspense and anticipation, inviting feedback and critique, and fostering trust with readers.
Workshopping: Workshopping is a collaborative process in which writers share their scripts or plays with peers or trusted readers for constructive feedback and development. This practice not only enhances the writing through multiple perspectives but also involves actors and directors to test the script's performance potential, fostering an environment where ideas can be honed and refined before reaching the final draft.