Playwright's Manifesto: How You Can Be The Future of Playwriting

In this review of Playwright's Manifesto, Paul Sirett argues that writing plays matters now more than ever. This slim, assertive book is best for writers, theatre-makers and experienced drama students who want a direct challenge to their habits and an invitation to deepen their theatrical instincts. The single biggest reason to buy is its focus on theatricality rather than conventional plot mechanics: Sirett pushes the reader to prioritise what is essential to them and to write plays that could help shape the future of theatre.

Key Features

• Manifesto approach: The book offers a clear, purposeful call to action that encourages writers to take responsibility for the future of playwriting and to write with intent.
• Theatricality focus: Rather than only explaining character and plot, it emphasises theatrical tools and stage thinking to help writers create vivid dramatic moments.
• Craft and challenge: Readers are urged to learn the craft thoroughly while also exploding assumptions about how plays should be written.
• Contemporary perspective: Drawing on past and present practices, it encourages playwrights to develop drama that speaks to today and tomorrow.
• Recognition: Shortlisted for the STR Theatre Book Prize 2023, the book carries a level of critical attention that signals value for serious readers.

Who It's For

Playwright's Manifesto is aimed at practising playwrights, theatre practitioners and advanced students who already know the basics of character and plot and are ready to broaden their approach. Its direct, manifesto-style tone suits readers who want a challenge rather than a how-to primer.

Readers looking for step-by-step exercises for beginners or a detailed textbook on dramatic structure should look elsewhere; this book works best as a provocation and a framework for further study rather than a comprehensive course in playwriting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear call to action that motivates writers to prioritise their unique voice and theatrical instinct.
• Useful reframing of playwriting around theatricality, helping experienced writers rethink form and presentation.
• Critical recognition via the STR Theatre Book Prize shortlist highlights its relevance to contemporary theatre discourse.

Cons

• The manifesto style may feel too brief or assertive to readers seeking detailed, beginner-friendly instruction or practical exercises.

Specifications

Title	Playwright's Manifesto, The: How You Can Be The Future of Playwriting
Author	Paul Sirett
Award recognition	Shortlisted for the STR Theatre Book Prize 2023
Primary focus	Theatricality and the future of playwriting
Audience	Playwrights, theatre-makers, advanced students
Approach	Manifesto-style challenge to conventional craft

Our Verdict

Playwright's Manifesto is a compact, intelligent provocation that will repay readers who already know the basics of playwriting and want to deepen their understanding of theatricality. It is good value as a thought-provoking companion to craft books and a useful spark for writers determined to shape the future of theatre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for beginners?
It is better suited to those with some playwriting experience; beginners may find the manifesto tone challenging without supplemental instructional texts.

Does it teach practical techniques?
It focuses on mindset and theatrical priorities rather than step-by-step exercises, so it works best alongside practical craft resources.

Has it received recognition?
Yes, it was shortlisted for the STR Theatre Book Prize 2023, indicating its relevance to theatre discourse.