SCRIPT CRITIQUE

In “The Artist’s Way,” Julia Cameron describes how to seek out criticism, “As artists, we must learn when criticism is appropriate and from whom… A first draft is seldom appropriately shown to any but the most gentle and discerning eye. It often takes another artist to see the embryonic work that is trying to spout.”  I was fortunate to have found Charlene to critique the first draft of my first script. Her encouragement, combined with insightful and incisive suggestions, helped me take the next steps to learning how to improve my skills and my script. Charlene personifies artistic critique that is gentle and discerning.
Nancy Shank, Playwright.  This Mortal Way Also​

Working Together

As a founding member of Proscenium Playwrights, a core member of The 9th Floor Playwrights & Actors Collaborative, an educator in the MFA in Playwriting at University of Nebraska Omaha, a creator and reader in many playwriting awards, and an active participant in my own art and craft of writing for the past two decades, I come to script critiquing from a unique perspective.  I read 100s of scripts a year and workshop dozens of plays for my fellow writers. When I critique a script, you get my years of education, my own success in production and publication, my knowledge of theatre from my work as producer, dramaturg, and, of course, as a fellow playwright.  

The Method

I read your script, formatted in Standard Samuel French format, at least three times.  The first read is to fall into the world, characters, and story you have created.  I get a feel for what an audience member will experience when your vision explodes before them.  The second reading is for line notes.  I ask you questions, ask you to consider, comment on what is working, give you smiles when I laugh, and more.  The third read is for end-notes which are one to three pages of general thoughts looking at my 10 Playwriting Questions you should consider for every script.  And, your script is always yours: I neither share your copyright nor promise production or publication after my critique. 

Fearless Revision

Based in playwriting craft, I will give you honest feedback, both positive and things that will guide you to consider your art in different ways.  After you have read the critique, we will connect, via telephone or virtual conversation, about your script.  I will answer questions, ask you questions, and we will explore your script through your vision.  It is here where you will start the journey to fearless revision.  

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To get further information on timeframe, fees, and how we work together on your script critique, please email me at: 

charlene@charleneadonaghy.com