The Back Stage Book of New American Short Plays 2005

by Craig Lucas, Mark Glubke

Back Stage Books is proud to introduce its new short play series. Published each fall, the Back Stage New Short Play Series will feature cutting-edge work by some of America's most promising young playwrights. Back Stage Senior Editor Mark Glubke will serve as the series editor. Each year, a different established playwright will serve as the series' guest editor. Craig Lucas, one of the most celebrated playwrights and screenwriters, introduces fresh-voiced, cutting-edge short plays by 12 of the most promising new writers. The plays are stylistically and topically diverse and were culled from the top theater agents in New York and Los Angeles, and playwriting programs across America.

304 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2004

Reviews

[James Binz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm certainly confused about the state of contemporary theater. These short plays had some moments, I'll give them that - BUT for the most part, they seemed like writing exercises for the beginner playwright. The monologues had merit, but there seemed to be nothing like plot. No journey of the hero. Small conflict with odd resolutions. I feel that anyone reading these will feel strongly that they can do it better. These writers need to read Aristotle's Poetics and maybe some David Mamet? or Steven Pressman? Craig? These are vaguely disappointing.

[behsforensics]

Cutting is for Dear Sara Jane
By Victor Lodato

[Shaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got the 2005 version.

Really really great plays. Very well written. Many humorous, some very thoughtful.