Period drama and how to write it

This performance-based workshop will explore period drama and look at how it is constructed. It will be based on script-in-hand performances of extracts from Sean's theatre work, and will cover issues such as research, language and authenticity. You will have the chance to be involved in writing exercises, using historical material and examples to begin to construct your own period drama.

In the first half we will look at issues of language, exposition, character, research and using source material, through a combination of performances of extracts from Sean's theatre work, film excerpts, and group work with participants. In the second half we will put them emphasis on participants constructing their own short scenes from historical material, culminating a presentation of their work to the whole group.

Workshop facilitated by Sean Lang, Anglia Ruskin University. Sean is a historian, broadcaster and playwright. His theatre work has been performed in Cambridge, Oxford, London, Norwich and at the Edinburgh Fringe.