Connecting through collaborative writing

What is the course about?

These days, creation in theatre is increasingly collaborative, with pieces of theatre created collectively by companies. City Lit tutor Brian Mullin has worked extensively in this way; in this class he'll introduce you to methods whereby pairs and small groups can pool together their ideas and experiences to create short pieces of theatre that build on everyone's contributions. In the course of this class you'll get to know your colleagues, try your hand at collective theatre-making techniques and then share short pieces of work you've created.

What will we cover?

Imagining scenarios for drama; basics of improvisation; collaborative dialogue-writing.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

Work with others to build upon ideas and collectively shape the script for a short piece of theatre.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an introductory course and no previous writing experience is required. You should be able to read and write fluently in English.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will learn through collaborative writing activities.

All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit.

For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.

City Lit Writing endeavours to create a safe and welcoming space for all and we strongly support the use of content notes in our classes. This means that learners are encouraged to make their tutor and classmates aware in advance if any writing they wish to share contains material that may be deemed sensitive. If you are unsure about what might constitute sensitive content, please ask your tutor for further clarification and read our expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring your own writing materials.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit offers a fantastic range of creative writing courses covering all genres and levels of ability. To browse our full range of creative writing courses, visit www.citylit.ac.uk/writing.

All students are invited to join us at Late Lines, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to Between the Lines, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on Facebook and Twitter.