How To Publish A Play

How to Publish a Play: A Guide for Playwrights

So you've finished writing your play—congratulations! Now comes the exciting, yet often daunting, task of getting it published. This guide will walk you through the process, from preparing your manuscript to finding the right publisher.

Preparing Your Manuscript: The Foundation of Success

Before you even think about submitting your play, ensure your manuscript is polished and professional. This is crucial for attracting the attention of publishers.

1. Thorough Editing and Proofreading:

• Self-Editing: Take time to reread your play multiple times. Look for inconsistencies in characterization, plot holes, pacing issues, and dialogue that feels unnatural.
• Professional Editing: Consider hiring a professional editor specializing in playwriting. A fresh pair of eyes can catch errors you might have missed. This is an investment that pays off.
• Proofreading: After editing, meticulously proofread for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies.

2. Formatting Your Manuscript:

• Consistent Formatting: Adhere to a standard playwriting format. This typically includes clear scene headings, character names, dialogue, stage directions, and act breaks. Many resources online provide examples of standard play formatting.
• Clean and Readable: Use a clear and easy-to-read font (like Courier New or Times New Roman) and a standard font size (typically 12 points). Ensure appropriate spacing between elements to enhance readability.
• File Format: Save your manuscript as a PDF to preserve formatting across different devices and operating systems.

Finding the Right Publisher: Research is Key

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to finding a publisher. Research is essential to find publishers who align with your play's genre, style, and target audience.

1. Identifying Potential Publishers:

• Research Publishers: Look for publishers specializing in plays or theatrical works. Consider smaller, independent presses, as well as larger, established houses. Browse their catalogs to see the types of plays they publish.
• Genre Specialization: Some publishers focus on specific genres (e.g., comedies, tragedies, musicals). Target publishers whose catalogs reflect your play's genre.
• Submission Guidelines: Always check each publisher's submission guidelines carefully. These guidelines provide crucial information about acceptable formats, preferred submission methods, and any specific requirements.

2. Submitting Your Manuscript:

• Follow Guidelines Precisely: Adhering to submission guidelines is critical. Publishers are more likely to reject manuscripts that don't meet these requirements.
• Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that briefly summarizes your play and highlights its unique qualities. Explain why you believe this particular publisher is a good fit for your work.
• Query Letter (Optional): Some publishers prefer a query letter before a full manuscript submission. A query letter is a shorter introduction to your play.
• Patience: The publishing process can take time. Be patient and persistent, even if you receive rejections.

Beyond Traditional Publishing: Alternative Routes

While traditional publishing remains a desirable goal, other avenues exist for getting your play seen.

1. Self-Publishing:

• Control: Self-publishing offers greater control over the publishing process and profits.
• Platforms: Utilize online platforms for self-publishing plays, including creating your own website or using e-book platforms.
• Marketing: Self-publishing requires a strong marketing strategy to reach your target audience.

2. Submitting to Theatre Companies:

• Direct Submission: Consider submitting your play directly to theatre companies. Many theatre companies accept unsolicited play submissions.
• Research Companies: Focus on companies that produce works similar in style and genre to your play.
• Networking: Attend theatre events and network with theatre professionals to increase your chances of getting your play noticed.

Publishing a play is a journey that demands patience, perseverance, and a polished manuscript. By following these steps and remaining dedicated to your craft, you'll significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to celebrate each milestone along the way!