YPT’s In-School Playwriting Program weaves the art of playwriting into Language Arts curricula as part of students’ school-day instruction. Through in-class playwriting workshops for elementary through college-aged students, YPT teaching artists provide students with the tools for dramatic writing and self-expression. Every student writes their own original play, professional actors visit every classroom to perform the students’ work. Seeing actors bring their words to life is an empowering experience that shows students that what they have to say matters. Students also contribute original dramatic work to YPT’s annual Ovation Showcase, which celebrates the creativity of young people across the DC region through a professional production featuring an ensemble of local actors.
In partnership with DC Public Schools (DCPS), YPT also provides year-long Young Playwrights’ Workshop residencies in drama classes across Washington, DC. Through these residencies, a YPT teaching artist provides the In-school Playwriting Program for each classroom of drama students, while equipping their teacher with tools and resources to teach playwriting to future classes. Students collaborate to write an original play and then perform their play for other Young Playwrights’ Workshop classes through YPT’s spring Playspiration Festival, and for the entire DCPS community through the annual DCPS Performing Arts Festival.