Residencies

The NHSI Playwriting Residency brings professional playwrights and teaching artists into high schools to introduce students to the fundamentals of dramatic writing. Through approximately 10 class sessions, students explore character development, dramatic structure, dialogue, and theatrical storytelling through workshops, discussions, and writing exercises. By the end of the residency, each student drafts an original 10-minute play.

Program Highlights

• Learn the fundamentals of playwriting, including character, structure, dialogue, and theatricality
• Write and develop an original 10-minute play
• Work directly with professional playwrights and teaching artists
• Build creativity, storytelling skills, and confidence as a writer

Participants are primarily sophomores and juniors with a wide range of writing experience, from beginners to more advanced writers.

Students who demonstrate interest and potential during the residency may apply to participate in the summer Playwriting Institute, where they continue developing their 10-minute play in an immersive environment alongside other young playwrights.

Inquire

Email nhsi@northwestern.edu to inquire about bringing a residency to your school

Cost: $3,000 for 10 class sessions

Residencies are designed to support existing educational goals and can be scheduled collaboratively with participating schools.