An Extreme Playwright’s Adventure (EPA) is the brainchild of Winnie Wenglewick.  She held two previously in Orlando when she owned Performance Space Orlando and has held two in Denver. The Adventure is meant to be a creative workshop for playwright, director and actor.  

The adventure begins when participating playwrights accept the challenge to write a 5-15 minute scene within a limited 36 hour period.  They are given a set description to work with and are not allowed to include any props not listed in the set description, nor may they include any special lighting or sound requirements.  The real challenge is in the inclusion of the Prop Actor.  The Prop Actor is an actor who is part of the set.  The writer must include this Prop Actor in the scene but may not write any dialog for him/her.  The Prop Actor is an improvisational character.  All writers are given the description at the same time and all scripts must be turned in 36 hours later. 

Here is the set for the next Extreme Playwright Adventure:

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Cage from the corner with table and chair outside.

Inside of cage from the front

Cage from the right side with chair and table outside.

Next is the actor’s and director’s challenge.  In what can best be described as a cattle casting call, a determined group of actors and directors show up on a Saturday morning to receive scripts. There is no audition. Roles are passed out based on who fits what character description.  Actors of all ages and experience are encouraged to participate in the EPA.  Once scripts are doled out, the actors and directors have the task of learning/directing their scenes over the next 24 hours.   They must do so without knowing what the actions and responses of the Prop Actor will be.  They will return to the theatre the next afternoon for a single rehearsal with the Prop Actor.  Of course, what the Prop Actor does and says in rehearsal may or may not be what he does in that evening’s performance.

There is a single performance on Sunday Night. Why would any writer, director or actor want to do this?  Simply, it is different, a challenge and loads of fun for all involved. The resulting performance is pure magic and one any audience would marvel at and enjoy.

 When is the next Extreme Playwright’s Adventure?
There is not one currently on the calendar, but that should change.  It is hoped one will be held this fall some time.

 Want to participate?
If you would like to participate in an EPA as a Playwright, Director, Actor (or any combination of the three) send an email to Winnie@dangeroustheatre.com