Widely studied, frequently staged – verbatim theatre is everywhere. In this exploration of his life and work, Mark Wheeller, the author of verbatim hits Missing Dan Nolan, Too Much Punch for Judy, Hard to Swallow and Game Over, and the UK’s most performed living playwright, takes readers on a personal journey through the form, and demystifies the verbatim theatre making process.
Mark Wheeller is recognised as one the leading contemporary verbatim playwrights for young people, with plays on the national curriculum and perpetually on tour, in rehearsal or on a school stage. What is his process? Where does he find inspiration? This personal account gives you a clear understanding of Mark’s unique and successful approach to verbatim theatre.
Verbatim: The Fun of Making Theatre Seriously is a perfect handbook for teachers, educators, students and anyone interested in the creative process.
Contents:
Chapter 1: Expertise? Ha ha ha
Chapter 2: Seeing Beyond the Blackout
Chapter 3: Meeting My Storybook Man
Chapter 4: Developing the Script
Chapter 5: Page to Stage
Chapter 6: At Last… performance… and reviews!
Chapter 7: EYT Race to the Fringe
Chapter 8: Race at Oaklands
Chapter 9: The Graham/Race Legacy
Chapter 10: Special Friends
Chapter 11: A New Millennium – A New Play
Chapter 12: Therfield School – where the stars aligned
Chapter 13: OYT 2008 Graham Production
Chapter 14: OYT 2008 Competitive Festival Performances
Chapter 15: Legacy and The Fun of Being a Serious Playwright
Afterword: Race to be Seen (2021 edit)
Appendix
Mark Wheeller talks about his own introduction to verbatim theatre.