What is a Playwright?

January 20, 2026

What is a playwright in theatre?

Playwrights are the storytellers behind theatrical productions, crafting the scripts that bring characters to life on stage. If you’re passionate about theatre and have stories to tell, a career as a playwright could be your calling. Playwriting is a dynamic and creative field that combines storytelling, dramatic structure, character development, and theatrical vision to create works performed live. Unlike screenwriters who craft narratives for film and television, playwrights create scripts that translate through performances that both the actors and audience experience live For those interested in turning their passion for storytelling and theatre into a college major, Regent University’s degree programs in theatre provide a practical pathway to develop expertise, build a professional network, and prepare for careers in the evolving landscape of dramatic arts.

Understanding Playwriting

Playwriting teaches both foundational dramatic techniques and advanced creative skills. Students begin by learning the basics: dramatic structure, dialogue writing, character development, and stage mechanics. After the basics, they learn specializations like experimental theatre, musical theatre writing, adaptation, and collaborative devising. Along the way, they develop strong analytical abilities, creative confidence, and the technical knowledge to see their words brought to life on stage, which are valuable competencies across the writing and entertainment industries.

Strategy and Creative Vision

Playwriting covers diverse approaches, allowing students to discover their strengths. Some playwrights focus on traditional narrative forms, such as realistic drama or comedy, while others pursue experimental theatre, devised works, or adaptations. College programs often encourage students to experiment with different styles and genres before specializing, helping them build comprehensive skill sets and understand how theatrical elements work together.
Most programs combine classroom instruction with practical production experience. Students write scripts, participate in table readings, revise based on director and actor feedback, and see their work performed. Access to a dedicated Theatre & Performing Arts Center provides aspiring playwrights with the infrastructure to workshop scripts, collaborate with actors and directors, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the whole production process from page to stage.

Educational & Career Opportunities

Theatre degree programs combine theoretical study with hands-on creative work. Along with developing original scripts, students analyze dramatic literature, attend productions, and collaborate with fellow theatre artists. This environment encourages experimentation, constructive feedback, and the ability to revise work based on its performance. A theatre degree with emphasis on playwriting prepares graduates for multiple professional paths. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks employment and wages for writers and authors, which includes playwrights alongside screenwriters, novelists, and other creative writers. As of May 2023, approximately 49,450 writers and authors worked nationally. The median hourly wage was $35.43, translating to an annual salary of $73,690. Meanwhile, the mean hourly wage was $42.11, corresponding to a yearly salary of $87,590.

Playwrights develop multiple revenue streams, including performance royalties, commissions, grants from organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts, and teaching positions. Many expand into screenwriting or television as streaming platforms increase content demand. Building visibility through festivals, contests, and theatre readings while networking at industry events creates essential connections. The theatrical landscape continues evolving with opportunities in streaming, podcasts, and digital theatre, rewarding playwrights who develop versatility across formats while maintaining distinctive voices.

How to Become a Playwright

Theatre degree programs provide practical pathways to develop expertise and build professional networks. A Bachelor of Arts in Theatre offers foundational training across theatrical disciplines, including dramatic writing, acting, directing, and theatre history. Campus programs like Regent’s provide production opportunities where students see their scripts performed and receive immediate feedback from live audiences.

A Master of Arts in Theatre offers advanced training in dramatic writing and provides professional development opportunities. Graduate programs include intensive workshops with established playwrights and opportunities to develop full-length works. Many programs now offer online options, making graduate education accessible to working professionals.

At Regent University, theatre programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Students write scripts, participate in table readings, and see their work performed on stage. Access to a theatre and performing arts center provides aspiring playwrights with the infrastructure to workshop scripts, collaborate with actors and directors, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the whole production process.

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