When we stop looking inward, we start to see who’s really in the boat with us. Boat is a powerful middle school vignette play about empathy, connection, and realizing we’ve never been alone. Click to learn more!
Playwright Spotlight: Get to Know Allison Green
Welcome to "Playwright Spotlight" — your exclusive backstage pass to the creative minds crafting the incredible plays featured in our Theatrefolk catalogue. Discover the magic, quirks, and genius of the playwrights who help bring the stage to life. Let's meet one of these exceptional playwrights who offers the chance for your student performers to shine in their spotlight.
What inspired you to start writing plays specifically for high school & middle school students?
I began writing in high school and wrote about my own experiences. I wrote dialogue between family members telling stories of family funny moments. But it wasn’t until I became a teacher that I wanted to write to include my student’s perspectives.
Can you share a bit about your creative process when developing plays that resonate with students?
I tend to write relationships … dialogue between friends, siblings (particularly sisters) and then I develop monologues to complete the thoughts of my characters about their important people.
Are there any challenges you face when writing for student performers, and how do you overcome them?
As I get older, I check with my students a lot more about tone of voice and turn of phrase. Not that I recommend trendy sayings - as language trends change quickly and become dated.
What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your plays?
Connection. The power of Art. Sharing your important stories with your important people.
How do you balance education and fun in your scripts?
I tend to use humour to get comfortable and then add in education. As one of my favourite directors Mark Wilson used to say, “open their mouths with laughter and then pour the truth down.”
Can you share a memorable experience or feedback from a student performance that left an impact on you?
I’m proud of young directors and actors who take on challenging work bravely. There have been controversial moments around my work (2SLGBTQ content) in some places in the world. Students who share my work Anonymous bravely despite those people who are uncomfortable make me terrifically proud.
Any advice for teachers or directors looking to choose engaging and age-appropriate plays for their student performers?
Theatrefolk’s catalogue allows students to explore.
What is your favourite play you've written so far?
I’m currently producing a new play that excites me. It’s about sisters, a neurodivergent artist who needs to connect through art. Themes that are similar, but more urgent (and dramatic) than my Anonymous.
Products Referenced
Anonymous
by Allison Green
Anonymous is a story of every teenager: trying to fit in, trying to belong, trying to fall in love. It's hard to be an individual when you're trying to survive.
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