I’m in the throes of preparing for The Tutor and that has included compiling lists of agents and literary managers and “influential acquaintances” to contact and invite. Two years ago, when Sezze Sun was produced I forgot to do this. It’s a little embarrassing to admit, but that play was such a bear to get on its feet that I just didn’t have time. And by the time I remembered it was too late. So it was a little disheartening to read this post from the Arena Stage this morning. I’ve worked in major off-Broadway literary departments, I have theatre publishing experience and I’m also a literary manager myself. So I know how difficult the slog of receiving unsolicited submissions is. I know that receiving solicited submissions is just as much of a slog. But when it’s my play, it somehow feels different. I’ve only done one mass mailing of a script, back in 2006 before I left for London. A handful of people wrote back asking for the full script, but no one really bit. Since then, I’ve done more targeted mailings to new writing theatres but have found that producing my own work and working with director/producer friends to develop work is much more rewarding(not to mention more practical) than sitting around waiting for rejection letters with feedback from interns to roll in.
This morning I also read the New Yorker article about Sheryl Sandberg and the male-dominated world of Silicon Valley. As has been written here and elsewhere, theatre, specifically commercial theatre, is no different. Her advice for working women is strong; she said this at Barnard’s graduation this year, “Go home tonight and ask yourselves, What would I do if I weren’t afraid? And then go do it!” It’s great advice for anyone, but it’s especially great advice for people who are in unconventional fields (like playwriting). There’s another instance where she offers a job to a female colleague who demurs saying that she’s not qualified. Her response to her colleague? “No man would ever turn down more responsibility.” As the product of 8 years of single sex education and the daughter of a (over-)working mother, I was constantly told that my gender had nothing to do with my ability to succeed academically and professionally. And while I continue to believe it, statistics sometimes prove otherwise. But no one said it would be easy.
