Conversations in plays, on screen, and in novels are not like conversations in real life. The best dialogue is a propelling force, advancing the action of the story and capturing what is special about the characters. In this workshop for writers—playwrights, screenwriters, novelists, and anyone who writes dialogue—explore ways to avoid the frivolous. Exercises that put your characters in do-or-die situations help you rewrite or create new material—and it will sizzle.

C.S. Hanson’s plays have been produced Off Broadway and regionally, and she has garnered national recognition as a four-time Heideman finalist. Her work has been developed by E.S.T., LaMama, At Hand Theatre, Metropolitan Playhouse, Living Image Arts, and 3Graces, among others.

The Writing Life events in 2013 were generously underwritten by Jenny Lawrence.