How to Sell Your Dramaturgical Skills – Report from New York City by Justine Spingler, ’10

In terms of dramaturgy, I have found that very few of the smaller theater companies employ or even take advantage of dramaturgy and what it can do for their organization. I have met with several of the artistic directors that come through Theatre Row and I have had conversations with them about dramaturgy. “Dramaturgy on a budget” seems to be the hot topic that comes up often. It might be something worth discussing: how to pitch yourself as a dramaturg, not only detailing what you can offer the play, artistic team, cast, etc. but what can be presented to the audience, how it can be used as a form of marketing, and at what price. Many people want to know how much money they need to spend on dramaturgy and want to know what they’re getting in return. There are several companies that could benefit from a clever $30 poster (beautifully designed and informative, of course) to put in the lobby on display, which I think would make their company appear more professional, dedicated, and show their audience members that they are growing. Blogs and electronic research packets are free of cost and can be of any size.

Aside from that, I went to see a Brief Encounter at Studio 54 a little while ago (Roundabout Theatre Company’s production) and they did something new that I thought may be of interest to the dramaturgs in the program as an option for their production projects. Since I was early to the show, I was invited to sit in the mezzanine lobby (about 15 chairs were set up for anyone who was interested and waiting to get in for seating) for a discussion and oral presentation about the show. The discussion was no longer than 15 minutes but it was very interesting and the person who gave the presentation was extremely informative, conversational, and knowledgeable on Noel Coward and the history of a Brief Encounter. Best of all, it wasn’t dull. The speaker was casual and related to those listening. She told us things she thought were really cool while maintaining this educated, well spoken persona. It was almost like a talk-back in reverse. Yet, it was simple, intimate, and made us excited to see the show.