Playwriting 101: Dialogue Techniques

This video tutorial by Julia Fischer focuses on crafting unique character voices in playwriting. It covers techniques such as varying sentence length, vocabulary, and the use of catchphrases and filler words. The tutorial also discusses the importance of directness, dialogue style, and the creative use of punctuation to convey character traits. Additionally, it provides guidance on using stage directions to enhance dialogue delivery. The goal is to help playwrights create distinct character voices that are easily recognizable by their dialogue.

What is the main goal of ensuring each character has a unique voice in dialogue?

• To make the play more complex

• To make the dialogue longer

• To help actors remember their lines

• To ensure characters are distinguishable by their speech

How can sentence length be used to differentiate characters?

• By using only short sentences

• By avoiding long sentences

• By using the same sentence length for all characters

• By varying the length of sentences each character uses

What should you consider about a character's vocabulary?

• Whether they use big or simple words

• Whether they use only technical terms

• If they avoid using any vocabulary

• If they use the same words as other characters

How can swearing be used to differentiate characters?

• By making all characters swear equally

• By varying the frequency and choice of swear words

• By avoiding swearing altogether

• By using the same swear words for all characters

What are catchphrases useful for in character dialogue?

• To make dialogue shorter

• To give characters a unique way of speaking

• To confuse the audience

• To make the play more formal

How can filler words add to a character's personality?

• By making their speech more natural

• By making their speech more formal

• By making their speech less understandable

• By avoiding any pauses

What does the style of dialogue in a play refer to?

• The number of characters

• The visual elements of the play

• The poetic or simple nature of the dialogue

• The length of the play

How can punctuation be creatively used in playwriting?

• By using only commas and periods

• By ignoring punctuation altogether

• By strictly following standard English rules

• By using punctuation to indicate pauses and intonation

What does an ellipsis (dot dot dot) indicate in dialogue?

• A character is whispering

• A character is asking a question

• A character has trailed off or paused

• A character is shouting

What does the stage direction 'a moment' signify?

• A brief pause with no significance

• A change in scene

• A long silence with no action

• A specific exchange of emotion or information