Learning to perfect the performance

Two UQ drama students will be perfecting their “play doctor” skills and adding to their dramaturgical toolbox as interns at Playwriting Australia’s national script workshop.

Upcoming valedictorian Krystal Sweedman and honours student Andrei Romaniuk have been selected for two of the four highly competitive student spots available.

Having many roles within the theatre, a dramaturg, or “play doctor”, researches the work in progress, providing critical feedback to the writer about how the script is being received, searches for inconsistencies and checks dates and accuracy of information.

“I think it’s fantastic Playwriting Australia is offering emerging theatre makers the chance to be involved in this process,” Mr Romaniuk said.

During the workshop, which runs from June 28 to July 9, the students will be assisting with stage management roles, observing directors and learning about the research role of a dramaturg.

“For me this is the opportunity to watch the best dramaturgs in Australia, and I am looking forward to connecting with other emerging artists,” Ms Sweedman said.

Led by directors, dramaturgs and an ensemble of actors, the two week workshop in Sydney will provide the students with the resources needed to progress with their creative development.

The UQ students who were selected from a national field of applicants, will be paid professional wages and will train alongside Playwriting Australia’s senior company to develop expertise on theatre production.

The University’s drama program is offered through the School of English, Media Studies and Art History, and is housed primarily in the newly refurbished Geoffrey Rush Drama Studio.

“UQ drama provides the most comprehensive historical program in Australia and we are increasingly being regarded as the natural home for training emerging dramaturgs as a result,” lecturer Dr Stephen Carleton said.

Dr Carleton is himself an award-winning playwright, whose productions have been performed by La Boite, Queensland Theatre Company and at the Sydney Opera House.

“Having two students selected for this graduate program is a real coup for us, and a tremendous credit to the students involved,” he said.

Playwriting Australia is the nation’s peak body for development of new work on the Australian stage and each year holds two national conferences in different Australian cities.
Media: Allison Rock at UQ Office of Communications (Allison.rock@uqconnect.edu.au or 07 3365 2619) or Stephen Carleton at (s.carlton@uq.edu.au 07 334 68739)