I truly believe that creative thinking is one of the most underrated yet massively important functions of our own minds. The reason I say this is because of the number of people that believe they are not creative, yet every day use their imagination to solve problems or find ways around obstacles that interfere with their normal routine. Understanding that these thoughts are in fact their imagination could be the key to unlocking potentials they never thought they had.
“Everyone has a play in them.”
I attended a workshop at the Grand Theatre Blackpool for the 37 Plays project this week. This is a creative initiative run by the RSC and their partner theatres to encourage the nation to have a go at writing a stage play. Being someone who has always been fascinated with the process of writing for the stage, I purchased a ticket.
So, along with about 30 people, we were taken through the process of creating a character and writing a short monologue. Out of this group, the majority declared that they “weren’t writers” but always enjoyed writing so thought they’d “have a go.”
As each exercise was completed, people started to read out their work. Remember, this was not a masterclass in the craft of writing, it was a workshop to look at the process of creating. The quality of the work coming from these “not writers” was brilliant. After years of working with people in the poetry community, and other writing groups, I was not surprised by this, more delighted. I found it reaffirmed my belief that everybody has the ability to tell their story, they just need to find the best way to be motivated and disciplined enough to see it through to the end.
I think this 37 Plays project is a fantastic idea. It’s completely open to everyone, so there is an equal chance of getting your work performed. Give it a go. One piece of advice though, have a read of a play or two, just to get your head around how they work, then don’t hold back. Get writing and share your amazing mind with the rest of us.