Play Script
A play script is a written document that outlines the dialogue, actions, and stage
directions for a theatrical performance. It serves as the blueprint for the production,
guiding actors, directors, and designers in bringing the story to life. Here’s a
comprehensive overview of the components of a play script:
1. Title Page
Title: The name of the play.
Author: The playwright’s name.
Contact Information: Often includes the playwright’s contact details or
representation, especially for submissions.
2. Cast of Characters
Definition: A list of characters appearing in the play.
Components:
o Character Names: Listed with brief descriptions or notable traits, if
necessary.
o Role Description: Information about each character's role in the
story, including their relationships to other characters.
3. Act and Scene Divisions
Acts: Major sections of the play that represent significant changes in time or
location. Each act is often divided into scenes.
o Example: Act 1, Act 2, etc.
Scenes: Subdivisions of acts that focus on specific events or interactions
within the act.
4. Dialogue
Definition: The spoken words of the characters.
Format:
o Character Name: Centered above the lines of dialogue.
o Dialogue: Written in standard text format beneath the character’s
name.
o Example:
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JANE
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I can’t believe this is happening.
JOHN
Neither can I. What do we do now?
5. Stage Directions
Definition: Instructions in the script that describe actions, movements, and
settings.
Components:
o Action Directions: Descriptions of what characters do on stage,
including physical movements and interactions.
o Emotional Cues: Notes on how lines should be delivered or the
emotions characters should express.
o Setting Descriptions: Details about the physical environment, props,
and set design.
o Example:
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(John enters from stage left, holding a letter. He looks around nervously.)
JANE
(rushing to John)
What’s the matter? You look pale.
6. Setting and Scene Descriptions
Definition: Descriptions of the time and place where the scene occurs.
Components:
o Location: Where the scene takes place (e.g., a living room, a park).
o Time of Day: Specific time or time period relevant to the scene.
o Example:
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Scene 1: A small, dimly lit living room. An old sofa and a coffee table are center
stage. A window on the back wall shows a stormy night outside.
7. Props and Costumes
Props: Items used by characters or placed on stage to enhance the scene.
Costumes: Clothing worn by characters that reflect their personalities and
the time period of the play.
Example:
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(Props include a broken vase, a stack of old books, and a worn-out armchair.)
8. Monologues and Soliloquies
Monologues: Extended speeches by a single character, often revealing their
thoughts or feelings.
Soliloquies: Monologues delivered by a character alone on stage, offering
insight into their internal struggles or reflections.
Example:
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JANE
(addressing the audience)
Alone at last. What a relief it is to be free from all this chaos. If only things could be
different...
9. Scenes and Transitions
Scenes: Specific moments or interactions within an act.
Transitions: How the play moves from one scene or act to another, including
any changes in setting or time.
Example:
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(The lights dim and then brighten to reveal a new setting: a bustling city street.)
10. Epilogue and Finale
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Epilogue: A concluding section of the play, often delivered by one or more
characters, that wraps up the story or offers final reflections.
Finale: The concluding part of the play, where all loose ends are tied up and
the story reaches its resolution.
Example:
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(JANE and JOHN stand together, looking out over the horizon as the sun sets.)
JANE
We made it. Everything is going to be alright now.
