The Playwriting Program at Washington University offers many unique opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. Our Playwright-in-Residence, Carter W. Lewis, has designed a pathway of courses to teach the art and craft of playwriting through both scholarly study and practical collaboration with artists in the field.
Each semester provides development and production opportunities for our writers with fellow students, faculty, and guest professionals from around the country. Some of the highlights of the program are the annual A.E. Hotchner Playwriting Competition & Festival, Student World Premieres, Visiting guest professionals, and a myriad of student-sponsored opportunities for playwrights to see their work realized.
The Performing Arts Department's ongoing commitment to playwriting is reflected in the caliber of professional guest dramaturgs, award-winning visiting playwrights, and the ongoing support and success of many of our Washington University playwriting alumni.