Okay. I admit it. I've been lazy and unmotivated lately. My playwriting effort has been limited for the most part, to short plays/sketches because they come easy to me and they are also easy to submit to various short play festivals.
While in submission mode and providing an accompanying description as to my background, the thought occurs to me as to whether I should label myself "playwright", having never had a play produced. Is a professionally produced play necessary to give a person who writes plays, "playwright"? Is the mere act of completing a play alright to call ourselves playwrights? Just some thoughts. But I digress.
My playwriting achievements as I've frequently shared here in this blog, are two two-act plays, which have been submitted to perhaps two dozen theatres, a one-act play submitted to six sources, in addition to numerous short-shorts i.e. 10-20 minute and under play-ettes submitted to numerous competitions. They - the plays - are all still waiting for the theatre world to discover them, as is the playwright.
All of this is leading to a very interesting blog passed on by the Playwright's Competition Calendar, a blog to which I'm subscribed, focusing on rejection. Written by Monica Byrne, a writer and playwright, she shares a blog focusing on what she calls, her "anti resume, resume." In it, she lists her rejections and breaks it down further in percentages.
In my case and if a similar exercise was pursued, there would also be a section for started-but-not-completed plays, completed plays languishing in cyber space due to fear of rejection or plays with themes that don't seem to fit theatre's niche.
Excuses thy name is Eleanor but I found Monica's anti-resume somehow comforting. Perhaps playwrights or aspiring playwrights will feel the same way: http://monicacatherine.wordpress.com/2013/08/19/my-anti-resume/
Sunday, September 08, 2013
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Post summer cleanup
This morning, not usually part of my condo cleaning routine, I decided to clear out the hard copies of my writing output. Why? Really don't know. Included in the clean up were printed columns and articles amassed over the years, which had turned yellow and were collecting dust in a large cardboard box stored on a shelf. Combing through the plethora of paper (plethora of paper - these three words have a certain ring to them) were plays that had been tossed in with the rest of the stuff for lack of space.
Amongst them were a few new short-short 10-minute play-ettes written with the intent of having them performed in front of an audience (a familiar theme) but somehow ended up in the "have to think about this further" state, a plethora of copies of "A Wedding!" a.k.a. 'Make me a Wedding', one of two full plays. Can't remember the reason behind printing 12 copies of 120 pages but most likely given the time period of the printing, it had to do with an opportunity to self-produce the play.
Thinking back, there had been an attempt at producing it on my own on less than a shoestring budget. However - hate the 'howevers' in life - many problems arose from the onset not the least of which, was the inability to acquire actors or people with acting experience that felt confident enough to memorize lines. They came, they left. They came, they left, to the point where the play was no longer viable. It was obvious when chunks of the play had to be cut along with characters to make up for the lack of actors. The "actors" who did stay didn't always show up for rehearsals having bowling or weekly mah-jong commitments while others went on extended vacations, or so they told me. The experience was akin to the play, "Noises Off" (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105017/).
At the bottom of the pile were stacks of copies (again) of "Gin..." my other play that has yet to see the light of day. Both plays are comedies and in my opinion, they're funny. At least I laugh every time I read them.
So now the dilemma is should they stay or should they go since I've updated them both at least a dozen times over the years. It's always interesting to read them over and evaluate the progression of the story line to their current incarnation. Alternatively, I could return them to their former storage place, think things over and wait until the cleaning fever passes. Definitely a better option.
Amongst them were a few new short-short 10-minute play-ettes written with the intent of having them performed in front of an audience (a familiar theme) but somehow ended up in the "have to think about this further" state, a plethora of copies of "A Wedding!" a.k.a. 'Make me a Wedding', one of two full plays. Can't remember the reason behind printing 12 copies of 120 pages but most likely given the time period of the printing, it had to do with an opportunity to self-produce the play.
Thinking back, there had been an attempt at producing it on my own on less than a shoestring budget. However - hate the 'howevers' in life - many problems arose from the onset not the least of which, was the inability to acquire actors or people with acting experience that felt confident enough to memorize lines. They came, they left. They came, they left, to the point where the play was no longer viable. It was obvious when chunks of the play had to be cut along with characters to make up for the lack of actors. The "actors" who did stay didn't always show up for rehearsals having bowling or weekly mah-jong commitments while others went on extended vacations, or so they told me. The experience was akin to the play, "Noises Off" (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105017/).
At the bottom of the pile were stacks of copies (again) of "Gin..." my other play that has yet to see the light of day. Both plays are comedies and in my opinion, they're funny. At least I laugh every time I read them.
So now the dilemma is should they stay or should they go since I've updated them both at least a dozen times over the years. It's always interesting to read them over and evaluate the progression of the story line to their current incarnation. Alternatively, I could return them to their former storage place, think things over and wait until the cleaning fever passes. Definitely a better option.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
The plan is sketch-y
"So, Eleanor - what have you been up to lately? Started any new plays, one hopes?"
Regretfully, no, but I did finish my final re-write of "A Thief on the Beach" and am satisfied with the end result.
"But Eleanor - that's not a play! It's a story! It's time you started on a new play or at least finish those that are languishing in cyber never-never land and waiting for an ending!"
True.. but my philosophy (major cop-out) is that a literary completion is a completion is... In as far as a new play(s) project is concerned, haven't come up with a burning idea or concept that moves me enough to explore.
"How about the one-act play that you submitted recently?"
Still waiting to hear back as to its fate, if at all. Hope springs eternal and all that.
"Is there anything new to report?"
Actually, yes. Maybe. Plans are in the works to produce and present an evening of sketch comedy. Proposed the idea to our writing group and to this end printed up a sampling of comedy sketches for all to read. They (sketches) were enthusiastically received and some of the people expressed the desire to be part of the project. I'm in the process of narrowing down the plausible sketches or those that will please a wide variety of tastes and ages. They will be distributed and we'll evaluate who will fit which sketch. Hopefully, the people that do commit to the project realize that there is a lot of rehearsal time involved.
Comedy, as anyone who has attempted it will attest, is a difficult challenge with timing plus delivery being everything. This is a concern. A number of the potential sketches have been shared here in this blog over time in addition to others actually performed a while back.
Meanwhile, we'll have to evaluate the comedy potential of the potential performers, which will be done next week, hopefully. To be continued...
Regretfully, no, but I did finish my final re-write of "A Thief on the Beach" and am satisfied with the end result.
"But Eleanor - that's not a play! It's a story! It's time you started on a new play or at least finish those that are languishing in cyber never-never land and waiting for an ending!"
True.. but my philosophy (major cop-out) is that a literary completion is a completion is... In as far as a new play(s) project is concerned, haven't come up with a burning idea or concept that moves me enough to explore.
"How about the one-act play that you submitted recently?"
Still waiting to hear back as to its fate, if at all. Hope springs eternal and all that.
"Is there anything new to report?"
Actually, yes. Maybe. Plans are in the works to produce and present an evening of sketch comedy. Proposed the idea to our writing group and to this end printed up a sampling of comedy sketches for all to read. They (sketches) were enthusiastically received and some of the people expressed the desire to be part of the project. I'm in the process of narrowing down the plausible sketches or those that will please a wide variety of tastes and ages. They will be distributed and we'll evaluate who will fit which sketch. Hopefully, the people that do commit to the project realize that there is a lot of rehearsal time involved.
Comedy, as anyone who has attempted it will attest, is a difficult challenge with timing plus delivery being everything. This is a concern. A number of the potential sketches have been shared here in this blog over time in addition to others actually performed a while back.
Meanwhile, we'll have to evaluate the comedy potential of the potential performers, which will be done next week, hopefully. To be continued...
Monday, July 29, 2013
The Best of Friends have returned home
Over the years, my children's manuscript, "The Very Best of Friends" a.k.a. "A Thief on the Beach" must have been tweaked at least a dozen times, if not more. The original story was written a while back - this means at least twenty years ago - but the basic story line remains the same.
The tale focuses on two best of friends, Jeremy Goat and Freddy Fox, who compliment each other but not necessarily in a positive way. The young goat has an uncontrollable, voracious appetite for just about everything and the sly fox lives to play pranks on the community of animals living in Pottersville, located "a half mile down from the best beach around."
The story has always remained close to my heart and hence the reason for the various updates over the years. When it comes to updating, I'm the 'queen of tweaking." The pattern is to "fix" it, put it away for a year or more, pull it out of storage periodically, "fix" it again and so on. It's been a while since the friends have seen the light of day in the true sense of the word and a read-through brought with yet more changes.
Reading through it, I found some inconsistencies along with one or two superfluous characters that were eliminated. No sooner had they disappeared then they were brought back in a different form. I spent the weekend updating/tweaking/fixing - call it what you want - and managed to re-write four pages. So far, so good but then I always say that. There are a lot of positive messages within the story line, which is one of the main reasons I've stuck with it, in addition to light humor.
This time round I'd really like to seek out a publisher, electronic or print, not sure yet. Being that it's for young children although adults would also enjoy the story, it would require illustrations.
It also lends itself to a cartoon, given the dialogue and characters but first things-first, the priority of which is to finish the last re-write.
More progress reports to follow. To paraphrase the mischievous Freddy: "what are we waiting for?"
The tale focuses on two best of friends, Jeremy Goat and Freddy Fox, who compliment each other but not necessarily in a positive way. The young goat has an uncontrollable, voracious appetite for just about everything and the sly fox lives to play pranks on the community of animals living in Pottersville, located "a half mile down from the best beach around."
The story has always remained close to my heart and hence the reason for the various updates over the years. When it comes to updating, I'm the 'queen of tweaking." The pattern is to "fix" it, put it away for a year or more, pull it out of storage periodically, "fix" it again and so on. It's been a while since the friends have seen the light of day in the true sense of the word and a read-through brought with yet more changes.
Reading through it, I found some inconsistencies along with one or two superfluous characters that were eliminated. No sooner had they disappeared then they were brought back in a different form. I spent the weekend updating/tweaking/fixing - call it what you want - and managed to re-write four pages. So far, so good but then I always say that. There are a lot of positive messages within the story line, which is one of the main reasons I've stuck with it, in addition to light humor.
This time round I'd really like to seek out a publisher, electronic or print, not sure yet. Being that it's for young children although adults would also enjoy the story, it would require illustrations.
It also lends itself to a cartoon, given the dialogue and characters but first things-first, the priority of which is to finish the last re-write.
More progress reports to follow. To paraphrase the mischievous Freddy: "what are we waiting for?"
Friday, July 19, 2013
A play-ful taste of "The Lemon"
As shared in a previous blog, I'm working on tweaking or re-writing one of my current short plays, "The Lemon." A comedy, I've always liked this play-ette and it's for this reason I'm providing an excerpt. As always, comments welcome.
The story focuses on a woman (PENNY), whose newly acquired more-than-gently used car is stalled and her saga to get it moved out of a busy intersection. Her cell phone dead and unable to contact the car dealer, she is forced to use a public phone that is otherwise in use by a female, and a verbal battle of wits ensues between them.
THE LEMON
by Eleanor Tylbor
CAST OF CHARACTERS
AT
RISE: A
female, (PENNY) paces outside a
public phone stand, waiting for person using the phone to leave. She is holding
a cell phone in one hand and repetitively hits it against her leg, then puts it
to her ear. She is tense since her car ("the lemon") is stalled in the middle of a busy intersection
PENNY
I don’t believe this! How many more things can
go wrong, today?
Aside to Female Phone User: 'Scuse me, lady, but I gotta use that phone!’
SOUND: CAR HORNS
‘Blow it out your nose, idiots! You'll get
more out of it!'
This is so typical. Finally, I get a cell phone and forget to charge the
battery.
ASIDE TOPERSON ON
ASIDE TO PERSON ON PHONE: “Chloe, if anything happens to me, call my parents and tell them that I love them. Oh and you can tell my sister she can have my Manolo Blahnik Shoes.’
I can’t take it! This…this… woman transferred me to an automated answering system! What ever happened to live conversation with a real person? Gone with the wind just like service in general!
The story focuses on a woman (PENNY), whose newly acquired more-than-gently used car is stalled and her saga to get it moved out of a busy intersection. Her cell phone dead and unable to contact the car dealer, she is forced to use a public phone that is otherwise in use by a female, and a verbal battle of wits ensues between them.
THE LEMON
by Eleanor Tylbor
CAST OF CHARACTERS
PENNY FLOWERS, Owner of “the lemon
FEMALE PHONE USER, (‘F.P.U.’) user of public phone stand
PENNY
I don’t believe this! How many more things can
go wrong, today?Aside to Female Phone User: 'Scuse me, lady, but I gotta use that phone!’
PENNY looks
off into the distance and makes obscene gesture with finger
SPEAKING
TO PERSON USING PHONE:
‘Scuse
me? Are you going to be much longer?’
FEMALE
PHONE USER (F.P.U.)
Do you
mind? I’m almost finished. Why don’t you use your cell phone?
PENNY
Uh duhhh!
Don'cha think I would if I could? It's broken –just like your fingers could
be if I can’t use that phone like… now
F.P.U..
Are you
threatening me with bodily harm? Oh gawd – a nut case! I attract them all!ASIDE TO
PENNY
I’m merely
venting, silly lady, at least for the time being but things could change if I don’t
get to use that phone! Perhaps I should explain so you’ll be sympathetic to my
dilemma. D'ya see that car over there?
F.P.U.
Like,
who cares, you crazy woman! ASIDE TO PERSON ON PHONE: “Chloe, if anything happens to me, call my parents and tell them that I love them. Oh and you can tell my sister she can have my Manolo Blahnik Shoes.’
PENNY
Humor me
for thirty seconds. Over there – see the car?
F.P.U.
You
mean that orange-colored wreck? That’s - yours? I’d keep it to myself if
I was you
PENNY
I bought
the rusting chunk of junk a week ago and it died on me, today. There’s a sucker
born every minute and the dealer saw a big red “S” right here on my forehead
F.P.U.
Okay. I see
your car. Now can I finish my conversation? The more you interrupt – the longer
it’ll take
F.P.U. turns away. PENNY taps her on the back
PENNY
Perhaps
I’m not making myself clear. I'm not a violent person by nature - not at all but
you’re pushing my buttons! Wait – I made a joke - get it? Public
phone stand? Push the buttons? In my personal angst, I still manage
to find humor. I’m a survivor alright!
F.P.U.
(talking
into phone softly)
‘Chloe?
Don’t hang up on me, yet! I want proof
if this nut case attacks me.’
PENNY
You
strike me as a relatively sensible person…um…um… You do have a name?
F.P.U..
Like I
would tell it to a weirdo like you, who not two minutes ago threatened me with
bodily harm
SPEAKS ON PHONE:
‘Are you still there, Chloe? I
might need you to call the police’
PENNY
Do you
appreciate how much time that has been wasted? Precious time I could
have spent speaking to my car dealer but you insisted on staking out your
territory here
F.P.U.
SPEAKS ON PHONE:
‘Get
ready to call 911! I mean it!’
PENNY
There's
no need for that. Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you that I'm normally
a sane person who rarely loses my temper, but my back’s against the wall!
PENNY reaches over and grabs phone
PENNY SPEAKS ON PHONE:
‘Hello Chloe? She’ll call you right back.’
There!
Your conversation is now over
F.P.U.
How dare you!
PENNY
How
dare I? How dare I, you ask? How many times did I
tell you that I hadda make a desperate phone call, but did you
listen? Nooooo! Your phone conversation took precedent over my needs, so I took things into my
own hands in the true sense of the word. If you don’t mind, I’d like some
privacy so block your ears and turn away. Better still, go away
F.P.U.
Excuse
me? After the way you interrupted my conversation? I think not
PENNY
Let me
see here…where’s my phone directory? This purse is so big, everything gets lost
inside… So this is where my salami sandwich went. Phew! Kind’a stinks. Then again, it is two weeks old. Would
you mind tossing it into the trash can over there?
FPU
I think
not! Why don’t you go throw it in yourself? It’s only mere few
feet away. Wouldn’t take you long
PENNY
You think I’m an idiot?
FPU
The
thought did cross my mind in addition to being insane
PENNY
I take
one step away from here and you jump in and take over control of the phone,
again. I think not! I’ll just put it back in my purse and toss it later on,
when you’re not around
FPU
That is
like, so disgusting! You’re gonna contaminate the phone! I’m gonna vomit!
PENNY
Don’t
let me stop you. Let’s see here…where is the number of my dealership. I should’a
filed it under “losers”. Here it is
PENNY
pushes buttons
PENNY
TALKS ON PHONE:
‘Tony please. Tony Mozarelle. He what?’
ASIDE TO F.P.U.:
This
is just my luck! They’re telling me my salesman has disappeared. Flown the coop.
Taken wing as it was
F.P.U.
Oh
well. Tough luck. Is it my turn, now?
PENNY
Not
yet but soon. Oh the angst of it all!
PENNY continues her phone conversation
PENNY
TALKS ON THE PHONE: ‘I'm a client of that place you
laughingly call a dealership. Oh they warned me not to buy anything from you
but did I listen? Nooo! Instead I go ahead and end up with this…this…clunker blocking the middle of a busy intersection! I-demand-satisfaction! Hello? Hello?’
ASIDE TO F.P.U: Do you believe she hung up on me? People are so rude these days
PENNY
(softly and politely)
ON THE PHONE: ‘Please don’t hang up. It’s been
a day in hell and I’m asking for your indulgence and forgiveness. Now, would it
be possible to speak to your wonderful manager? And his name would be…? Mr.
Anthony Blackburn. Would this helpful Anthony person be free to talk to
me now? Thank you so much… Miss…Miss…Jenkins – and you have a good day. ‘Ciao
bella.’ Mr. Blackburn? Hi there...my name is….’
VOICE OVER: “Hello. You’ve reached my voice mail because I’m too busy
selling people cars at the most unbelievable bargain prices! Every hour on the hour, we
lower the prices of our gently used ve-hi-cles so that our customers can save
their bucks to pay for gas. Leave me a message and I’ll get back
to you…whenever.”
I can’t take it! This…this… woman transferred me to an automated answering system! What ever happened to live conversation with a real person? Gone with the wind just like service in general!
F.P.U.
Why
don’t you just march right over there and give that manager a piece of your
mind, right now! I would.
PENNY
I’m
distraught and demoralized and all you can think about is to continue your stupid, insipid
conversation with Chloe! On top of it all, the automated machine spat out names
and phone locals and I don’t even have a pencil! Is there no end to the
frustration I must deal with?
ASIDE TO F.P.U.:(genteel sweet voice:)
Um - friend? I feel we’ve gotten to
know each other in the short time we’ve both been standing here - two travelers
on the super phone highway, dialing to communicate our needs. I’m wondering here
if I could, like, ask a little fa-vor? It's not a biggie or anything that could
put you out. Do you - would you… by any chance have a pen or pencil I could borrow? I don’t seem to have
anything to write with
F.P.U.
After
the way you treated me? You really have nerve!
PENNY
Just
desperate. Check in your purse. Perhaps you’d
like me to check in there for you?
F.P.U.
You
wanna rob me, don’t you? That’s it, isn’t it? Ohmygawd! I'm hyperventilating...
PENNY
Look,
whatever-your-name-is - let's start all over and pretend we just met. Isn’t that a good idea? Make
believe I'm a close but needy friend who happened along and is asking you to - nay – begging
you to please check for a pen
or pencil that I could borrow. D'ya think you could do that? As one sister to
another? All you hav’ta do is open that bee-u-ti-ful designer
pocketbook, stick your hand
inside and feel around. I'll even take an eyeliner or eyebrow pencil…anything
with lead will do…
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Re-thinking about re-tooling and re-evaluating
Second-guessing is not a good idea, especially when dealing with an established story line. As shared here in this blog ad nauseum, I'm my own worst enemy when it comes to editing my plays. Actually, one play in particular ("you couldn't be referring to 'Old Soldiers' now, could you, Eleanor?") which could be but not necessarily so, depending on yet another read-through evaluation of the story line and dialogue flow.
The reason for this conclusion came as a result of a sleepless night and for whatever reason - it's better than counting sheep - started thinking about the characters in my various plays and whether they are believable. It's been my experience that the lack of sleep precipitates my old friend, creeping doubt, to make its presence known. The play, as anyone who has followed the saga of writing and finishing 'Old Soldiers' knows, has had many incarnations and updates. The uncertainty last night was that maybe the original story line, is in the end, the best one after all.
This conclusion was reached at two-thirty a.m. until four a.m. in the morning while staring up at the ceiling. That's when self-doubt works best providing visual images of the characters playing out their scenes. Questions arose to the surface as to the various re-writes and incarnations and the rationale behind making changes.
Issues like whether or not Daisy the dog character is relevant and is her inclusion necessary? What would happen if she was dropped? Given that the dog is featured in one scene only, does it play an integral part of the whole? More importantly, would Daisy be insulted?
"Why drop me?" Daisy would most likely ask if she could. "After everything that Joe and I have been through, together, over many years, my contribution is important."
In the first copy of the play, there was interesting verbal inter-action between Joe and a bus driver discussing the reason for Joe's trip. It was subsequently dropped in later re-writes but I'm toying with the idea of writing it in, again. My thoughts behind this is that perhaps it would provide more background information on the character.
When sleep finally took over, I was no further ahead than before other than the conclusion that this is a really good play - if it's ever really finished. Whether that feeling of not one more word can be added or deleted will ever be experienced.
And there-in lays the problem.
The reason for this conclusion came as a result of a sleepless night and for whatever reason - it's better than counting sheep - started thinking about the characters in my various plays and whether they are believable. It's been my experience that the lack of sleep precipitates my old friend, creeping doubt, to make its presence known. The play, as anyone who has followed the saga of writing and finishing 'Old Soldiers' knows, has had many incarnations and updates. The uncertainty last night was that maybe the original story line, is in the end, the best one after all.
This conclusion was reached at two-thirty a.m. until four a.m. in the morning while staring up at the ceiling. That's when self-doubt works best providing visual images of the characters playing out their scenes. Questions arose to the surface as to the various re-writes and incarnations and the rationale behind making changes.
Issues like whether or not Daisy the dog character is relevant and is her inclusion necessary? What would happen if she was dropped? Given that the dog is featured in one scene only, does it play an integral part of the whole? More importantly, would Daisy be insulted?
"Why drop me?" Daisy would most likely ask if she could. "After everything that Joe and I have been through, together, over many years, my contribution is important."
In the first copy of the play, there was interesting verbal inter-action between Joe and a bus driver discussing the reason for Joe's trip. It was subsequently dropped in later re-writes but I'm toying with the idea of writing it in, again. My thoughts behind this is that perhaps it would provide more background information on the character.
When sleep finally took over, I was no further ahead than before other than the conclusion that this is a really good play - if it's ever really finished. Whether that feeling of not one more word can be added or deleted will ever be experienced.
And there-in lays the problem.
Monday, July 01, 2013
Have sketches - will perform
Every second Tuesday afternoon, our Writer's Corner group meet to share our latest creative writing output. Interestingly enough, the participating writers are also talented artists, all of whom know each other on a personal friendship basis. It's sort-of an interchange and exchange of creative abilities. I've always believed that people in the various creative arts will find each other i.e. like-attracts-like.
In any case and rather than produce a new writing piece to add to my extensive collection, made a decision to give my comedy (at least I believe they are) sketches/play-ettes shared in this blog, a chance to be heard. To this end, I've selected three favorites to be performed in front of the group, assisted by a fellow member of the writer's group. We've worked together in the past a while back when there were plans to present my two-act comedy, "A Wedding!" Although the play never got beyond the rehearse and read-out-loud stage, the two of us have remained friends over the years and she likes the idea of doing the sketches, be it read out loud from sheets. It will be interesting to gauge the reaction of the listeners and I'll share the end result here. The intention, depending on the reaction, is to possibly perform the sketches in front of groups to get my plays "out there."
Speaking of plays, sent a submission query to the Theatre Unbound in Minneapolis, MN, having found a call for plays a general "submissions wanted" section of a playwriting site. They responded with, "Due to a staffing shortage we are not able to accept script submissions as we had originally intended. Please check our website in 6 months for change to this status and for script requirements."
Will follow up in six months. Oh well... We live in hope.
In any case and rather than produce a new writing piece to add to my extensive collection, made a decision to give my comedy (at least I believe they are) sketches/play-ettes shared in this blog, a chance to be heard. To this end, I've selected three favorites to be performed in front of the group, assisted by a fellow member of the writer's group. We've worked together in the past a while back when there were plans to present my two-act comedy, "A Wedding!" Although the play never got beyond the rehearse and read-out-loud stage, the two of us have remained friends over the years and she likes the idea of doing the sketches, be it read out loud from sheets. It will be interesting to gauge the reaction of the listeners and I'll share the end result here. The intention, depending on the reaction, is to possibly perform the sketches in front of groups to get my plays "out there."
Speaking of plays, sent a submission query to the Theatre Unbound in Minneapolis, MN, having found a call for plays a general "submissions wanted" section of a playwriting site. They responded with, "Due to a staffing shortage we are not able to accept script submissions as we had originally intended. Please check our website in 6 months for change to this status and for script requirements."
Will follow up in six months. Oh well... We live in hope.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Scenes from Life: a Short Playette "THE LINE UP"
THE LINE UP
©BY ELEANOR TYLBOR
SCENE: An apartment parking lot. A female stands in front of parking spots, hands on hips. Her expression is one of deep contemplation and thought. A car pulls up and parks beside her.
FEMALE DRIVER
Hi there! Car won't start?
FEMALE CAR WATCHER (FCW)
Y'know - it's really upsetting
FEMALE DRIVER
Know where you're coming from. So upsetting when your car won't start especially when you have somewhere to be
FCW
My car is fine. It's about those lines
(FEMALE DRIVER gets out of car and stands next to FEMALE CAR WATCHER)
FEMALE DRIVER
Sorry?
FCW
The parking lines. It's just not right
FEMALE DRIVER
(staring and studying parking lines)
Are they crooked? I mean, sometimes it must be hard to get them 100% straight...
FCW
Not that. What's wrong with those lines?
FEMALE DRIVER
They look okay to me...nice and straight...evenly spaced and all...
FCW
It's the color
(silence for 10 seconds as they both stare at the empty parking space lines)
FEMALE DRIVER
Yellow
FCW
Yellow! That's the problem!
FEMALE DRIVER
Can't say I've given the color of parking lines much thought lately
FCW
Bright canary yellow! They just...stand out!
FEMALE DRIVER
Aren't they supposed to? I mean, they're there to show people where to park their car
FCW
Do they have to be so bright?
FEMALE DRIVER
They just painted them a couple of days ago. Give them time and they'll get lighter
FCW
Why couldn't they have used white? White is unobtrusive
FEMALE DRIVER
(smiling)
Well - um - I would guess that somebody probably had a deal with a street paint company or perhaps there was some left over from the last time the lines were painted...
FCW
...we all know where to park our cars! They didn't have to use that color! Did you also notice that they made the lines wider, too?
FEMALE DRIVER
(looking down at lines)
You're right. Then again, we all aren't getting any younger! Bigger can be better
FCW
Everywhere! Yellow...yellow...yellow and more yellow lines.
FEMALE DRIVER
To be honest, I'm kind of partial to yellow. Honestly? Doesn't bother me
FCW
Oh... I see... Well I guess you won't be signing my petition to get the lines re-painted white, then
FEMALE DRIVER
Seriously? I mean, if it bothers you that much...
FCW
...well - I'll be off then. Some of us take the color of our parking lines seriously
(FCW turns on her heel upon spotting a male parking his car, leaving FEMALE DRIVER smiling and shaking her head)
FCW
(aside to driver getting out of car)
'Hello there! That's some beautiful car you're driving. there! Jaguar isn't it? What do you think of the color of the parking lines? So tacky, don't you think?'
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Playing around: sending out the word
As an aspiring playwright (insert deep sigh here) continually seeking out potential submission sites, it occurred to me that it would simplify the process by keeping track here of where the plays go and the end result. Sometimes the end result is made known with a rejection note while other times the fate of the submitted play is never known.
Not sure how many hopeful and striving playwrights read this blog but perhaps it would be helpful and somewhat cathartic for me, to share the names of the various theatres/groups/whoever and the end result (where applicable) when sending out one of my plays. I'll also add commentary (where applicable) and any commentary (when applicable) passed along by the contact person. In sharing, we all learn.
The most recent play submitted was my one-act, which also happens to be one of my favorites, "Retribution" sent to the Sundog Theatre in Staten Island on April 9. Came across this theatre while conducting my daily search and the theatre just stood out as I combed through the various sites. After querying them, did further checking with their mandate being: "Sundog Theatre is a performing arts organization in Staten Island that provides entertainment for adults and children in the form of contemporary and original theatre." Having visited New York but never Staten Island, this theater excites me quite a bit. Here is the coordinates of their web site: http://www.sundogtheatre.org/
The content is definitely not for young children and although I mentioned this in my communication with a theatre administrator, she mentioned that on occasion they do perform other types of plays and to pass along the play, anyway. At this point, I'm waiting to find out whether or not my "baby" has found a home and obviously hoping - really hoping - that it has. I've sent a follow-up query and patience isn't one of my strong points but I'm philosophical in that whatever happens - happens (profound Eleanor - profound!).
Additionally, I've also been querying some theatres that are presenting short play festivals. Having written quite a few, it might be a good fit.
Riff-Raff Productions in the UK sounds like an intriguing concept worthy of further thought and investigation.
There are a few other theatres I'm waiting to hear from as to whether they accept play submissions from outside their country of origin. Meanwhile, will provide updates here regarding the end result(s).
Not sure how many hopeful and striving playwrights read this blog but perhaps it would be helpful and somewhat cathartic for me, to share the names of the various theatres/groups/whoever and the end result (where applicable) when sending out one of my plays. I'll also add commentary (where applicable) and any commentary (when applicable) passed along by the contact person. In sharing, we all learn.
The most recent play submitted was my one-act, which also happens to be one of my favorites, "Retribution" sent to the Sundog Theatre in Staten Island on April 9. Came across this theatre while conducting my daily search and the theatre just stood out as I combed through the various sites. After querying them, did further checking with their mandate being: "Sundog Theatre is a performing arts organization in Staten Island that provides entertainment for adults and children in the form of contemporary and original theatre." Having visited New York but never Staten Island, this theater excites me quite a bit. Here is the coordinates of their web site: http://www.sundogtheatre.org/
The content is definitely not for young children and although I mentioned this in my communication with a theatre administrator, she mentioned that on occasion they do perform other types of plays and to pass along the play, anyway. At this point, I'm waiting to find out whether or not my "baby" has found a home and obviously hoping - really hoping - that it has. I've sent a follow-up query and patience isn't one of my strong points but I'm philosophical in that whatever happens - happens (profound Eleanor - profound!).
Additionally, I've also been querying some theatres that are presenting short play festivals. Having written quite a few, it might be a good fit.
Riff-Raff Productions in the UK sounds like an intriguing concept worthy of further thought and investigation.
There are a few other theatres I'm waiting to hear from as to whether they accept play submissions from outside their country of origin. Meanwhile, will provide updates here regarding the end result(s).
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Scenes from Life: a Short Playette "THE MEETING"
THE MEETING
©by Eleanor Tylbor
SCENE: a busy suburban street. Lots of heavy equipment involved in repairing road surface
Two women (strangers) walking slowly, one behind the other, holding shopping bags. The one in front stops, turns around and faces other female
FEMALE 1
So much going on here and all that traffic!
FEMALE 2
They're in a fixing mode
FEMALE 1
Have you tried crossing the street?
FEMALE 2
Not today but I have on other occasions
FEMALE 1
You take your life in your hands!
FEMALE 2
Very busy for sure
FEMALE 1
I almost got killed before!
FEMALE 2
Seriously?
FEMALE 1
Seriously. Twice, y'know!
FEMALE 2
I believe you
FEMALE 1
I crossed over there (points with finger) and had to run for my life! My heart is still beating. Here - feel it
FEMALE 2
I'll take your word. Don't we know each other? Your face looks familiar
FEMALE 1
...the cars kept moving and if I didn't know better, I swear they were aiming for me..
FEMALE 2
(laughing)
Do you have a lot of enemies? You don't mind if I walk with you? We'll watch each other's back so to speak
FEMALE 1
...I was really, really scared, let me tell you! Saw my life flash in front of me!
FEMALE 2
Was it interesting? Sorry - just joking. So...like... where do we know each other?
FEMALE 1
What's your name?
FEMALE 2
Betty Ann Baker and you?
FEMALE 1
No...don't know anybody by that name. Lots of people say they know me but they don't. They only think they know me
FEMALE 2
As I mentioned, your face strikes me as familiar. Do you belong to the Ladies Study Group?
FEMALE 1
I do! Are you a member?
FEMALE 2
No but I know lots of people who are. It's none of my business but why don't you cross at the traffic lights?
FEMALE 1
'Cause it's closer to cross here
FEMALE 2
So is death. The traffic lights are a two minute walk. That's what I do
FEMALE 1
Did I mention that I almost got killed twice? The drivers just don't care! Insane!
FEMALE 2
You can't blame them. They have the right of way and you don't
FEMALE 1
What happened to respecting the pedestrian, huh? And human decency? Last week I almost got run over by a cyclist. A cyclist no less and he wasn't even wearing a helmet! I tell you - civility is a thing of the past
FEMALE 2
People are in a rush, I suppose. No time for each other.
FEMALE 1
I've been living in this area 25 years and it was never busy like this back then. Too commercialized now. Too many buildings
FEMALE 2
Can't stop progress
FEMALE 1
The weekly Study Group meets today. Are you going?
FEMALE 2
Like I said, I'm not a member. Once in a while I drop by as a guest if they have an interesting topic that strikes my fancy
FEMALE 1
Don't blame you. Meetings are boring. Used to be interesting but not anymore. A lot of blah-blah-blah about nothing but they serve decent refreshments at the end
FEMALE 2
Do tell
FEMALE 1
They do. Do you know Peggy...Peggy...somebody. She's tall and thin
FEMALE 2
Don't know any Peggys
FEMALE 1
Anyway, she's in charge of the telephone list. Calls all the members to tell them about the next meeting. She always asks everyone, "how are you?" I mean, why does she say that? She doesn't really care
FEMALE 2
Guess she was just being polite and friendly. Sometimes we say things out of habit when we don't know what else to say
FEMALE 1
People make these trivial comments that don't mean a thing. You know, things like, 'nice talking to you' or 'how's your arthritis' Why would I tell her about my physical conditions, anyway? I mean, she's a complete stranger. My doctor told me I need a new knee. Pains me terribly...
FEMALE 2
This is where we part. I go the other way
FEMALE 1
God I was so scared I was going to get hit...
FEMALE 2
But here you are alive and kicking. Bye! Maybe we'll see each other again
FEMALE 1
...I put my hand out to tell the car to stop...thank goodness it did...
FEMALE 2
Take care! See you around sometime! Don't forget to cross at the traffic lights! The life you save could be your own!
Wednesday, June 05, 2013
Old Soldiers - the short story - gets a reading
As anyone who has read this blog will attest, my quest to give my one-act play, "Old Soldiers" 'legs' so to speak, borders on the obsessive. There is something about the characters and the story line that has become part of my psyche and touched my soul. They have become as close to me like extended members of my family.
In the way of background information although I've probably shared this in a previous posting, the story line it is based on an interview with army veterans conducted a while back for my newspaper column, focusing on their Remembrance Day memories. Somehow, it caught my imagination and slowly developed into a short story, actually more towards a novelette.
Over the years it was tweaked and eventually put into cyber storage. The characters, though, wouldn't be forgotten, which led to the creation of the one-act play.
As a member of a small writer's group, we read our latest projects out loud for critique and comment, resulting in helpful feedback. Old Joe McKenna and his army buddies decided they wanted to come out of cyber storage and be heard. Who am I not to grant them the opportunity? The original story is dramatic with serious overtones, whereas in the play version the characters have been flushed out to make them individuals in their own right and to propel the story along.
In reading the story, it was so quiet you could have heard the proverbial pin drop. The characters were ready for their public debut and as line after line was recited, their story played out in my mind. Needless to say, Joe and his buddies were enthusiastically received and there were calls by everyone to extend it into a book. The listeners wanted more and there was a half-hour discussion and suggestions offered as to where the story line could go. In explaining that I was working on a play version, they also wanted to hear the play read out loud. I'm very superstitious in sharing in as far as my new plays are concerned although it is a valuable opportunity to gauge their reaction to the contents. We'll see.
Meanwhile, Joe and the guys have left the room, happy that they had a chance to be heard. It's the least I could do.
In the way of background information although I've probably shared this in a previous posting, the story line it is based on an interview with army veterans conducted a while back for my newspaper column, focusing on their Remembrance Day memories. Somehow, it caught my imagination and slowly developed into a short story, actually more towards a novelette.
Over the years it was tweaked and eventually put into cyber storage. The characters, though, wouldn't be forgotten, which led to the creation of the one-act play.
As a member of a small writer's group, we read our latest projects out loud for critique and comment, resulting in helpful feedback. Old Joe McKenna and his army buddies decided they wanted to come out of cyber storage and be heard. Who am I not to grant them the opportunity? The original story is dramatic with serious overtones, whereas in the play version the characters have been flushed out to make them individuals in their own right and to propel the story along.
In reading the story, it was so quiet you could have heard the proverbial pin drop. The characters were ready for their public debut and as line after line was recited, their story played out in my mind. Needless to say, Joe and his buddies were enthusiastically received and there were calls by everyone to extend it into a book. The listeners wanted more and there was a half-hour discussion and suggestions offered as to where the story line could go. In explaining that I was working on a play version, they also wanted to hear the play read out loud. I'm very superstitious in sharing in as far as my new plays are concerned although it is a valuable opportunity to gauge their reaction to the contents. We'll see.
Meanwhile, Joe and the guys have left the room, happy that they had a chance to be heard. It's the least I could do.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Looking back to look forward
During my daily check-in of my various blogs, somehow this blog always makes me feel guilty. There is always a lengthy gap between updates because, basically, I'm a procrastinator. My writing is always full of big intent but then for whatever reason, it passes and rather than force a personal confrontation, it falls by the wayside.
"So what have you been doing, Eleanor?" you might be wondering.
I've finally decided on an ending to "Old Soldiers" but now I'm having doubts as to whether pursue this play, given its subject being an aging, very-old soldier who wants to make his last stand count. Although there is no violence, recent turn of events are making me think twice about its suitability.
Here we have Joe McKenna, a man who did his part for his country, saw action in WWII and now as an aging, frail veteran with a failing body, wants to make a point, a plea actually, on behalf of all vets. It's the culmination of his desire to leave his mark and an unexpected meeting with two strangers that influences the final outcome. Throughout the play, there is comic relief with the interaction of Joe and his buddies. Thing is...I love the dialogue and the premise of the play.
Having not read, "The Lemon", a 20-minute comedy play-ette I wrote a while back (why are all my plays in the "written a while back" state?) for a while, I'm attempting to turn it into a one-act play. Also planning to work on another started-but-semi-abandoned play, "Dead Writes" in which I've written three scenes.
In the way of positivity and progress, I've submitted my one act play, "Retribution" to a theatre and hoping that it will meet with an acceptance. Not saying/writing anymore about it because I'm superstitious and it could jinx the end result.
Hopefully, the next update will be sooner than later but one never can predict these things. Most likely... Maybe... Soon for sure...
"So what have you been doing, Eleanor?" you might be wondering.
I've finally decided on an ending to "Old Soldiers" but now I'm having doubts as to whether pursue this play, given its subject being an aging, very-old soldier who wants to make his last stand count. Although there is no violence, recent turn of events are making me think twice about its suitability.
Here we have Joe McKenna, a man who did his part for his country, saw action in WWII and now as an aging, frail veteran with a failing body, wants to make a point, a plea actually, on behalf of all vets. It's the culmination of his desire to leave his mark and an unexpected meeting with two strangers that influences the final outcome. Throughout the play, there is comic relief with the interaction of Joe and his buddies. Thing is...I love the dialogue and the premise of the play.
Having not read, "The Lemon", a 20-minute comedy play-ette I wrote a while back (why are all my plays in the "written a while back" state?) for a while, I'm attempting to turn it into a one-act play. Also planning to work on another started-but-semi-abandoned play, "Dead Writes" in which I've written three scenes.
In the way of positivity and progress, I've submitted my one act play, "Retribution" to a theatre and hoping that it will meet with an acceptance. Not saying/writing anymore about it because I'm superstitious and it could jinx the end result.
Hopefully, the next update will be sooner than later but one never can predict these things. Most likely... Maybe... Soon for sure...
Friday, May 03, 2013
Scenes from Life: a Short Playette. AT THE SUPERMARKET
NOT ALL BREAD IS EQUAL
SCENE: A SUPERMARKET.
A shopper approaches a display of French bread (baguette), squeezes them and shakes her head
CUSTOMER
Not fresh
Bakery clerk with French accent dressed in white shirt, pants, big white apron approaches. Stops and studies customer, hands on hips
BAKERY CLERK
Is there something wrong?
CUSTOMER
There could be
BAKERY CLERK
I see you squeezing my bread. Do you do this to your husband?
CUSTOMER
Come again?
BAKERY CLERK
I say...do you touch your husband in the same manner as you squeeze all my baguettes?
CUSTOMER
Your what?
BAKERY CLERK
My baguettes...the bread, madam. If the legal authorities were looking for you, they would have no trouble in finding your fingerprints. They are right there in all my breads
CUSTOMER
Your breads?
BAKERY CLERK
I bake the breads, madam. I am the one responsible for their safety
CUSTOMER
Of course you are and I'm the one responsible for eating them. So...like...when did you bake these?
BAKERY CLERK
See those ovens over there? That's where it all begins. Every morning they bring me the frozen bread and I very carefully place them in the oven. Not too high a heat, mind you, or they burn.
CUSTOMER
Gee - ovens make bread. Go figure
BAKERY CLERK
Yes, this is true. This oven there (pats oven), she make beautiful baguette. Sometimes, she baaaad and burn bread.
CUSTOMER
This baking French bread 101 is all very interesting but you still haven't answered my question. When did you bake this bread?
BAKERY CLERK
(shocked tone)
You are accusing me of selling stale bread, madam?
CUSTOMER
It feels sort-of stale to me
BAKERY CLERK
Madam. You have hurt me deeply. Every day, including holidays, I bake the baguette. People expect fresh bread. I take this responsibility very seriously.
CUSTOMER
You still didn't give me an answer
BAKERY CLERK
(voice breaking - picks up cloth from baking pan and blows nose)
...every day, mind you, including weekends...holidays... I am a trained French baguette maker...I take special course at the National Baguette Baking School of Paris and Cannes sur la Seine
CUSTOMER
Really. I'm not casting aspersions on your character or your baking ability. I'm sure you're a top baguette baker...
BAKERY CLERK
...I arrive number one in my class
CUSTOMER
Good. Let me put it this way: from which basket do you recommend that I take my bread? Basket one...basket two...or basket three? Gawd - I feel like I'm on a game show
BAKERY CLERK
(looking around)
Come close. The one on the far right - keep it between you and me
Customer reaches over, takes a bread with her hand and drops it
CUSTOMER
Why didn't you warn me the bread was hot?
BAKERY CLERK
You didn't ask me that question. Am I a mind reader? I'm a simple baguette baker from Paris...
Monday, April 08, 2013
In submission mode...again
I'm in a submission, as in submitting one of my plays, state of mind.
As a Twitter-er or Tweeter or whatever it's called, came across a theatre that caught my attention. After reading the submission guidelines, decided my "Retribution" play might be a good fit.
Wrote this play a while ago and over time have tweaked it to the point where it's now "submission-ready", or at least in my opinion. A one-act play and a drama with a cast of three people, don't really know where the impetus for the idea behind the play came from. It definitely wrote itself and I was merely a means in which the words jumped on to the computer screen. Sometimes it just happens - that easy. It makes up for all the times that in spite of a concerted effort, a plot falls apart and the play is forever relegated to the "save for the future" file. Unforutnately, there are a number of these in this file.
Still haven't finished "Old Soldiers" (Eleanor holds her head down, shaking it sadly) in spite of choosing an ending. Perhaps my real psychological block is the decision to convert it to a radio play, a medium in which I'm not familiar. The dialogue, as I've shared here, is very strong as are the characters, but my concern is with the addition of sound-effects. Although the BBC stated on Facebook that there will be a competition this year, I'm still waiting for the announcement of a new deadline. Nothing like a deadline as an impetus.
In any case, it's been a while since submitting "Retribution" and maybe - just maybe - this time will be the right time.
As a Twitter-er or Tweeter or whatever it's called, came across a theatre that caught my attention. After reading the submission guidelines, decided my "Retribution" play might be a good fit.
Wrote this play a while ago and over time have tweaked it to the point where it's now "submission-ready", or at least in my opinion. A one-act play and a drama with a cast of three people, don't really know where the impetus for the idea behind the play came from. It definitely wrote itself and I was merely a means in which the words jumped on to the computer screen. Sometimes it just happens - that easy. It makes up for all the times that in spite of a concerted effort, a plot falls apart and the play is forever relegated to the "save for the future" file. Unforutnately, there are a number of these in this file.
Still haven't finished "Old Soldiers" (Eleanor holds her head down, shaking it sadly) in spite of choosing an ending. Perhaps my real psychological block is the decision to convert it to a radio play, a medium in which I'm not familiar. The dialogue, as I've shared here, is very strong as are the characters, but my concern is with the addition of sound-effects. Although the BBC stated on Facebook that there will be a competition this year, I'm still waiting for the announcement of a new deadline. Nothing like a deadline as an impetus.
In any case, it's been a while since submitting "Retribution" and maybe - just maybe - this time will be the right time.
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Re-thinking and re-writing. "The Lemon" could be sweet
Go figure. Here I was under the impression that the BBC International Playwriting Competition was on hold or cancelled altogether. Much to my surprise, read on Facebook to stand by since they are about to announce the details of this year's competition.
While this is great news and under the assumption that the competition was cancelled, I've been re-thinking entering "Old Soldiers" as my entry.
"After all that waiting - you're going to abandon us?" Joe would probably ask. The issue is whether or not 'soldiers would be radio-friendly due to the necessity of sound effects.
A while back, I wrote a short play entitled, "The Lemon" focusing on the trials and tribulatiion of a female owning and trying to unload her car, which as the title infers, is a "lemon." A comedy, it's a fun story line and the characters would lend themselves to radio. At present it would run about 20-30 minutes but it wouldn't be difficult to add to the story.
This week I'm going to re-examine The Lemon with a critical eye to see if and how the story can be expanded. Meanwhile, I'm waiting for the announcement of the new deadline. Progress reports to come.
While this is great news and under the assumption that the competition was cancelled, I've been re-thinking entering "Old Soldiers" as my entry.
"After all that waiting - you're going to abandon us?" Joe would probably ask. The issue is whether or not 'soldiers would be radio-friendly due to the necessity of sound effects.
A while back, I wrote a short play entitled, "The Lemon" focusing on the trials and tribulatiion of a female owning and trying to unload her car, which as the title infers, is a "lemon." A comedy, it's a fun story line and the characters would lend themselves to radio. At present it would run about 20-30 minutes but it wouldn't be difficult to add to the story.
This week I'm going to re-examine The Lemon with a critical eye to see if and how the story can be expanded. Meanwhile, I'm waiting for the announcement of the new deadline. Progress reports to come.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
BBC International Playwriting Competition for 2013???
A short blog entry (where have you read that before?).
As shared here ad nauseum, I've been making a concerted effort to finish my "Old Soldiers" play that I started three years ago. It was and still is my hope to enter it in the BBC International Radio Playwriting Competition this year. However - it's always the 'howevers' in life that get in the way - can't find any link to a 2013 version being held.
Thing is...I'm almost finished the play at last and if the competition isn't being held this year, it will be a real downer. I mean, the play could always be submitted somewhere else but this competition has always been a personal challenge for me having never written for radio. There is still the concern that there's a lack of sufficient sound effects but I was (and am still, hopefully) going to go for broke and enter.
Just came back from the competition site in the hope of seeing the new deadline listed but to no avail. This does not bode well since the deadline is usually early Spring. Oh well... I'm still determined to finish it after which I'll 'put it to bed' for a while followed by a period of tweaking and finally hitting the 'submit' key.
Meanwhile, time is marching on. Joe and his friends would understand.
As shared here ad nauseum, I've been making a concerted effort to finish my "Old Soldiers" play that I started three years ago. It was and still is my hope to enter it in the BBC International Radio Playwriting Competition this year. However - it's always the 'howevers' in life that get in the way - can't find any link to a 2013 version being held.
Thing is...I'm almost finished the play at last and if the competition isn't being held this year, it will be a real downer. I mean, the play could always be submitted somewhere else but this competition has always been a personal challenge for me having never written for radio. There is still the concern that there's a lack of sufficient sound effects but I was (and am still, hopefully) going to go for broke and enter.
Just came back from the competition site in the hope of seeing the new deadline listed but to no avail. This does not bode well since the deadline is usually early Spring. Oh well... I'm still determined to finish it after which I'll 'put it to bed' for a while followed by a period of tweaking and finally hitting the 'submit' key.
Meanwhile, time is marching on. Joe and his friends would understand.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Another re-make of a re-make of another film remake
Just reading a piece about the release of the latest re-make of"The Great Gatsby." For whatever reason - lack of original ideas springs to mind - they're re-interpreting it again for this generation. Personally, a large proporation of the film remakes that I've seen rarely matched up to the original. This leads one - me - to wonder why producers/directors/film production companies feel the necessity to update a film that on the whole, was good.
In the way of background information and according to Wikipedia, the story, "narrated by Nicholas "Nick" Carraway, a 30 year old Yale graduate and WWI veteran from the midwest, who takes a job in New York as a bond salesman. He rents a small house on Long Island, in the (fictional) village of West Egg, next door to the lavish mansion of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaiare who holds extravagant parties."
Checking further with IMDB, the first film version dates back to 1926 and starred Warner Baxter as Jay Gatsby and Lois Wilson as Daisy Buchanan. Furthermore, much to my surprise, a stage production opened at the Ambassdor Theater on February 26, 1926, ran for 112 performances and was directed by George Cukor.
The next film version in black and white, was made in 1949 starring Alan Ladd and Betty Fields. I always liked Ladd as an actor and although I never saw the film, most likely he did a decent job. The next incarnation in 1974 was the one that I watched and being an admirer/fan of Robert Redford, I thought it was...okay mainly because he was in it. Didn't particularly care for Mia Farrow as Daisy and thinking back, there was very little chemistry between the two stars.
Last but not least, it appears there was yet another version in 2000 (wasn't aware of this) with Mina Sorvino and one Toby Stephens in the lead roles.
That brings us up to the latest incarnation to be released in May 2013, starring Leonardo di Caprio and Carrie Mulligan. Somehow, di Caprio, at least in my mind, doesn't have that suave, sophisticated personna necessary to play Gatsby. Then again, who knows.
This is all leading up to the question originally posted here, as to the necessity of yet another re-make of the re-make of.... One re-make is acceptable or even two re-makes but five? The point being made is that script writers should be searching and coming up with their own ideas, rather than turning out scripts based on the story lines and scripts created by other script writers.
In as far as the newest and hopefully the last version of this story, I'm going to pass but for people who are intrigued to know what the film is about, here is the trailer: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1343092/?ref_=sr_1
In the way of background information and according to Wikipedia, the story, "narrated by Nicholas "Nick" Carraway, a 30 year old Yale graduate and WWI veteran from the midwest, who takes a job in New York as a bond salesman. He rents a small house on Long Island, in the (fictional) village of West Egg, next door to the lavish mansion of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaiare who holds extravagant parties."
Checking further with IMDB, the first film version dates back to 1926 and starred Warner Baxter as Jay Gatsby and Lois Wilson as Daisy Buchanan. Furthermore, much to my surprise, a stage production opened at the Ambassdor Theater on February 26, 1926, ran for 112 performances and was directed by George Cukor.
The next film version in black and white, was made in 1949 starring Alan Ladd and Betty Fields. I always liked Ladd as an actor and although I never saw the film, most likely he did a decent job. The next incarnation in 1974 was the one that I watched and being an admirer/fan of Robert Redford, I thought it was...okay mainly because he was in it. Didn't particularly care for Mia Farrow as Daisy and thinking back, there was very little chemistry between the two stars.
Last but not least, it appears there was yet another version in 2000 (wasn't aware of this) with Mina Sorvino and one Toby Stephens in the lead roles.
That brings us up to the latest incarnation to be released in May 2013, starring Leonardo di Caprio and Carrie Mulligan. Somehow, di Caprio, at least in my mind, doesn't have that suave, sophisticated personna necessary to play Gatsby. Then again, who knows.
This is all leading up to the question originally posted here, as to the necessity of yet another re-make of the re-make of.... One re-make is acceptable or even two re-makes but five? The point being made is that script writers should be searching and coming up with their own ideas, rather than turning out scripts based on the story lines and scripts created by other script writers.
In as far as the newest and hopefully the last version of this story, I'm going to pass but for people who are intrigued to know what the film is about, here is the trailer: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1343092/?ref_=sr_1
Monday, February 18, 2013
Playwright makes some progress
It's becoming somewhat of an obsession but one in which Joe McKenna and his friends would most likely approve.
Added some more dialogue to "Old Soldiers" play today, although the ending is still up in the air. Wondering if it will ever have any solid substance.
"Really, Eleanor - we deserve better than this," Joe would comment upon my somewhat limited progress. "How much longer do we have to wait. It's been almost four years, now."
It's not for lack of trying. During sleepless nights, Joe and his friends plus the other characters pop in to say hello. Too bad that can't offer advice.
I'm fortunate to be a visual writer and see my words actually come to life and play out in the various scenes. Problems arise when I re-read the existing story line and the realization that something is awry. For example, my dilemma today was whether or not it's logical for a young character to be a great grandson and how old should he be? Then there is the issue of which war Joe and his friends were in.
This is followed by the dreaded 2-R's - Re-write and a Re-thinking - after which ennui sets in accompanied by self-doubt as to whether it will ever be finished. The problem is that I can't let it go for whatever reason. In writing my two other full plays that took approximately a year and-a-half to two years to complete, they seemed to write themselves. The two are so familiar to me that I can quote lines and passages from both.
One of my biggest concerns as expressed on numerous occasions that may be a contributing factor to the delay, is using the format for radio. The issue of having sufficient sound effects is always there. The dialogue is strong and if it was performed on stage would offer an interesting piece of theatre. However, my main objective is, as it always has been, to finish the play once and for all. And therein lays the problem.
Added some more dialogue to "Old Soldiers" play today, although the ending is still up in the air. Wondering if it will ever have any solid substance.
"Really, Eleanor - we deserve better than this," Joe would comment upon my somewhat limited progress. "How much longer do we have to wait. It's been almost four years, now."
It's not for lack of trying. During sleepless nights, Joe and his friends plus the other characters pop in to say hello. Too bad that can't offer advice.
I'm fortunate to be a visual writer and see my words actually come to life and play out in the various scenes. Problems arise when I re-read the existing story line and the realization that something is awry. For example, my dilemma today was whether or not it's logical for a young character to be a great grandson and how old should he be? Then there is the issue of which war Joe and his friends were in.
This is followed by the dreaded 2-R's - Re-write and a Re-thinking - after which ennui sets in accompanied by self-doubt as to whether it will ever be finished. The problem is that I can't let it go for whatever reason. In writing my two other full plays that took approximately a year and-a-half to two years to complete, they seemed to write themselves. The two are so familiar to me that I can quote lines and passages from both.
One of my biggest concerns as expressed on numerous occasions that may be a contributing factor to the delay, is using the format for radio. The issue of having sufficient sound effects is always there. The dialogue is strong and if it was performed on stage would offer an interesting piece of theatre. However, my main objective is, as it always has been, to finish the play once and for all. And therein lays the problem.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Some thoughts about coffee mugs and inspiration
First another rant. Just returned from a coffee shop for a quick caffeine pick-me-up and once again encountered a coffee mug related problem. As a writer, a coffee or tea break is an important tool in the thinking process. If and whenever possible, I opt for a 'real' china mug rather than a paper cup. Somehow, and maybe it's my imagination, hot beverages including tea always seem to retain better flavor in a non-paper receptacle.
At this particular chain, customers are given a mug in which to pour their own coffee with unlimited refills. As the server handed over the mug, couldn't help but notice that the rim was slightly chipped.
ME
Excuse me but this mug is chipped
There was a thirty second silence between us while we stared into each other's eyes. Sort-of a coffee-shop-stare-down. Glancing down, she grabbed another mug, passed it to me and took off to chat with another server.
Meanwhile, walking over to fill up the mug with coffee, I saw there were stains inbedded on the sides.
ME TO SERVER
This mug is stained. See? Look at the sides...
SERVER
(grabbing another mug absent-mindedly)
This is as good as it's gonna get.
Let's just say it was passable but only just. 'As good as it's gonna get?' That's a good explanation?
The problem, in my humble opinion, is that a large portion of coffee drinkers have opted to be satisfied with a paper cup. We have turned into a population of mobile coffee drinkers who prefer to walk while they drink, rather than take the time to sit down and experience the pleasure of sipping coffee from a proper drinking receptacle. Proper drinking mugs and cups are becoming obsolete and coffee shops focus on their paper cup customers. Rant over and back to the real heart of the situation.
In spite of a concerted effort to work on my playwriting, my brain seems to be neutral. In assessing the situation, I'm thinking here that perhaps it's due to my physical location away from home base where ideas and dialogue seem to flow endlessly. Not that the current atmosphere isn't conducive to writing but the change, at least for me, isn't for the better. In my normal setting, there is a window next to the computer set-up and somehow staring out of the window at the passing scene inspires the part of my brain that produces ideas and concepts. Most of my time these days is spent staring at the computer screen, accompanied by the occasional line or two, which is frequently deleted shortly thereafter. Presumably and hopefully, upon my return to my usual environment, the words will flow like water. Or not.
“I tell my students there is such a thing as ‘writer’s block,’ and they should respect it. You shouldn’t write through it. It’s blocked because it ought to be blocked, because you haven’t got it right now.”
—Toni Morrison
Yup.
At this particular chain, customers are given a mug in which to pour their own coffee with unlimited refills. As the server handed over the mug, couldn't help but notice that the rim was slightly chipped.
ME
Excuse me but this mug is chipped
There was a thirty second silence between us while we stared into each other's eyes. Sort-of a coffee-shop-stare-down. Glancing down, she grabbed another mug, passed it to me and took off to chat with another server.
Meanwhile, walking over to fill up the mug with coffee, I saw there were stains inbedded on the sides.
ME TO SERVER
This mug is stained. See? Look at the sides...
SERVER
(grabbing another mug absent-mindedly)
This is as good as it's gonna get.
Let's just say it was passable but only just. 'As good as it's gonna get?' That's a good explanation?
The problem, in my humble opinion, is that a large portion of coffee drinkers have opted to be satisfied with a paper cup. We have turned into a population of mobile coffee drinkers who prefer to walk while they drink, rather than take the time to sit down and experience the pleasure of sipping coffee from a proper drinking receptacle. Proper drinking mugs and cups are becoming obsolete and coffee shops focus on their paper cup customers. Rant over and back to the real heart of the situation.
In spite of a concerted effort to work on my playwriting, my brain seems to be neutral. In assessing the situation, I'm thinking here that perhaps it's due to my physical location away from home base where ideas and dialogue seem to flow endlessly. Not that the current atmosphere isn't conducive to writing but the change, at least for me, isn't for the better. In my normal setting, there is a window next to the computer set-up and somehow staring out of the window at the passing scene inspires the part of my brain that produces ideas and concepts. Most of my time these days is spent staring at the computer screen, accompanied by the occasional line or two, which is frequently deleted shortly thereafter. Presumably and hopefully, upon my return to my usual environment, the words will flow like water. Or not.
“I tell my students there is such a thing as ‘writer’s block,’ and they should respect it. You shouldn’t write through it. It’s blocked because it ought to be blocked, because you haven’t got it right now.”
—Toni Morrison
Yup.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Joe McKenna has run into a problem and the playwright is angsting
I'm in angst - again.
In spite of a concerted effort to finish my "Old Soldiers" play in the hope of entering it in the BBC International Playwriting Competition, I've encountered a new and unexpected problem. Content is fine. Flow is fine. Story line is interesting.
"Now what, Eleanor?" Joe is asking me. "How much longer are you going to keep us waiting? We ain't gettin' any younger."
I know, Joe! I know!
Today for whatever reason, I decided to check the rules in as far as the number of pages and characters allowed.
"All scripts submitted must be a minimum of 45 pages of A4 paper (or equivalent) and a maximum of 65 pages (note, a rough guide is a minute per page; please read and time your play before you send it). The play should have a maximum of six central characters (there may be up to 3 small "doubling" characters too, who don’t have more than a few lines each). Your script must be accompanied by a short synopsis which outlines the complete story of the play. This must be no more than 400 words."
The way that I view it, there could be and then again, maybe not, more than six main characters. Thing is...it's all in one's definition of "main characters." Do main characters re-occur throughout the play? How does one define a "minor character?" There are, give or take a character, nine characters in total. The play opens with the four old army buddies, who definitely fall into the main character category. Then there are other lesser but not necessarily main characters who come-and-go but contribute to the over-all plot of the play. Eliminating one or two in my mind, would ruin the flow of the play. Everyone has a part to play - excuse the pun.
I've reached the 45 page mark, which is in itself an accomplishment. Really in a quandry as to how to proceed. Usually, when in doubt, I would send off an e-mail and ask for a clarification but after a check on the BBC site, this isn't an option. Maybe the best thing to do is to finish the play, submit it and put it in the hands of fate. Do I have a choice?
In spite of a concerted effort to finish my "Old Soldiers" play in the hope of entering it in the BBC International Playwriting Competition, I've encountered a new and unexpected problem. Content is fine. Flow is fine. Story line is interesting.
"Now what, Eleanor?" Joe is asking me. "How much longer are you going to keep us waiting? We ain't gettin' any younger."
I know, Joe! I know!
Today for whatever reason, I decided to check the rules in as far as the number of pages and characters allowed.
"All scripts submitted must be a minimum of 45 pages of A4 paper (or equivalent) and a maximum of 65 pages (note, a rough guide is a minute per page; please read and time your play before you send it). The play should have a maximum of six central characters (there may be up to 3 small "doubling" characters too, who don’t have more than a few lines each). Your script must be accompanied by a short synopsis which outlines the complete story of the play. This must be no more than 400 words."
The way that I view it, there could be and then again, maybe not, more than six main characters. Thing is...it's all in one's definition of "main characters." Do main characters re-occur throughout the play? How does one define a "minor character?" There are, give or take a character, nine characters in total. The play opens with the four old army buddies, who definitely fall into the main character category. Then there are other lesser but not necessarily main characters who come-and-go but contribute to the over-all plot of the play. Eliminating one or two in my mind, would ruin the flow of the play. Everyone has a part to play - excuse the pun.
I've reached the 45 page mark, which is in itself an accomplishment. Really in a quandry as to how to proceed. Usually, when in doubt, I would send off an e-mail and ask for a clarification but after a check on the BBC site, this isn't an option. Maybe the best thing to do is to finish the play, submit it and put it in the hands of fate. Do I have a choice?
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