Write and Perform a Family Play

A play script is a special form of writing that is meant to be performed. Unlike a story, a script tells actors exactly what to say and how to move. Writing a family play gives you the chance to combine storytelling, dialogue, and performance all in one project.

Key Features of a Script

• Character list — names and brief descriptions of all characters, placed at the start.
• Scene headings — tell the audience where and when the scene takes place.
• Dialogue — each character's spoken words, written after the character's name followed by a colon.
• Stage directions — written in brackets or italics; they describe movement, tone, or actions.
• Acts and scenes — plays are divided into acts (major divisions) and scenes (smaller sections).

Script Format

Structure of a Play

1. Introduction — sets the scene and introduces the main characters.
2. Rising action — the problem or conflict develops through events.
3. Climax — the turning point where the tension reaches its peak.
4. Falling action — events after the climax begin to wind down.
5. Resolution — the conflict is resolved and the play ends.