Writing Queer Drama [An LGBTQ+ Learning Collaborative Cooperative Seminar]

How do dramatists create compelling representations of LGBTQ+ people on stage? Writers will read play and musical texts by contemporary LGBTQ+ playwrights, as well as foundational framing texts in queer studies, dramaturgy, and playwriting. In addition to scholarly analysis of LGBTQ+ characterization and in assigned readings, the class prioritizes creative application of strategies we've analyzed in the pursuit of original playwriting. The course’s final project will focus on writing an original one act play script developed through generative exercises and peer workshop sessions throughout the term, with creative and analytic projects developed concurrently. Writers should expect to perform each others’ work for peers in a theatrical celebration at the end of the course.