Teen Summer: Monologues for the Movement: A Social Justice Playwriting Workshop

Class Description

Theater is a magical realm of possibilities where artists and theater-makers can engage with and radically reimagine their realities. "Theatre is a weapon. For that reason, it must be fought for." -- Augusto Boal. Boal (1931-2009) was a Brazilian theater-maker and the founder of Theater of the Oppressed. This workshop encourages youth with opportunities to express themselves about a social justice topic that they’re passionate about using Theater of the Oppressed, devised theater and playwriting techniques. We will engage in texts and discussion around liberation movements across time and leading art activists from those movements. Students will then craft monologues from the perspective of a historical figure and movement leader of their choice. Students will have an opportunity to learn theater and vocal techniques to perform their monologues for the class as well. Students will leave with an understanding of how to integrate art and activism using various creative writing, theater, and performance tools. For writers of all experience levels, age 13 - 18 ONLY.

Sustainability and Community:

Based on student suggestions and to offer writers a sustainable learning experience, this YAWP weeklong provides a balance of craft sessions and exercises with plenty of optional components so that teens can take screen breaks as needed.

Each morning session will feature a craft talk or group exercise with your designated instructor, and in the afternoon you’ll have optional and lowkey meetings that could consist of:

• Q&A chat with your writing instructor
• Group writing with music
• Reading party
• Movie viewing followed by a chat about craft
• Writing games
• Open mic/sharing

Students are encouraged to self-advocate, opting out if they are fatigued or diving in if they want more creative activity. Either way, instructors will always be available to answer questions via email and/or Zoom chat!

Registration Instructions:

• Register for the class by clicking the red "ADD TO CART" button and following the checkout instructions through our website. If you do not have an account, you will be able to make one easily. When making the account, please use your preferred name.
• If you are registering on behalf of a student, add their email in the “For a Friend or Child?” field on the right-hand side of the screen at check out. This will send them a direct link and reminder to create their own profile with GrubStreet.
• If the student is under 18, parents/guardians must complete this Teen Participation Permission Form. You only need to fill this form out one time, not for every class. Please complete it with the student's preferred name. If you cannot remember whether you have already filled it out, please email [email protected] and we will check for you! If you do not complete this form, your registrations could be voided and the cancellation policy will apply.
• If the student is 18, simply let us know by emailing [email protected].

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If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected]. We’re excited to write with you this summer!