Writing for the theater is not a solitary endeavor. At least not only. Of course, everything somehow begins and ends at the writer’s desk, and it is there that the text is primarily developed and shaped, gaining its full individuality. However, many great theater texts in history only took their final form through dialogue with the actors during rehearsals—it is said, for example, that Shakespeare tested, refined, and continuously honed his texts in collaboration with his theater troupe.

A collective that reads, discusses, and experiments together usually makes the texts better. Our aim is to examine drafts, sketches, and initial versions of emerging plays with due respect for the author’s intentions and ideas—but also with a full enthusiasm for collective creativity. We will explore working methods and develop suggestions for further development together.

The seminar leader is the Head Dramaturg at the Volkstheater in Vienna. In his own writing, after years of experimenting with form, he is increasingly searching for ways to revive classical storytelling for the present—driven by the conviction that the future of theater with its audience will depend on the ability to tell great stories.

A prerequisite for successful participation in the seminar is regular and active engagement, as well as thorough preparation for each session, including the texts of fellow students. Attendance is mandatory.