Drama
Drama, as a skill in the freelance marketplace, encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from scriptwriting and playwriting to acting, directing, and dramatic education. It's about crafting compelling narratives, developing believable characters, and bringing stories to life through various mediums. Whether you're looking to produce a captivating stage play, create an engaging educational programme, or develop a compelling video script, a freelance drama specialist can bring your vision to fruition.
What to look for in a drama freelancer
When searching for a drama freelancer, consider their specific area of expertise. Are you looking for a playwright, a screenwriter, a drama facilitator, or a voice actor? Look for a portfolio that showcases their experience in your chosen area. Pay attention to the quality of their writing, their understanding of dramatic structure, and their ability to create engaging characters and dialogue. Check for testimonials or reviews from previous clients.
Main expertise areas
Drama freelancers often specialise in specific areas such as:
- Scriptwriting (film, television, theatre)
- Playwriting
- Acting (voice acting, stage acting, screen acting)
- Directing
- Dramaturgy
- Drama education/facilitation
- Storytelling
Relevant interview questions
Here are some questions you might ask when interviewing a drama freelancer:
- Can you share examples of your previous work in this area?
- What is your process for developing a script or play?
- How do you approach character development?
- What are your strengths as a drama practitioner?
- How do you handle feedback and revisions?
- (For educators/facilitators) What is your experience working with different age groups or learning styles?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
Shortlisting can be simplified by focusing on these key areas:
- Relevance of portfolio to your project
- Quality of writing and storytelling
- Positive client testimonials and reviews
- Clear communication and responsiveness
Potential red flags
Be mindful of these potential red flags:
- Lack of a demonstrable portfolio or showreel
- Poor communication or unprofessionalism
- Inconsistency in the quality of their work
- Unwillingness to discuss revisions or incorporate feedback
Typical complementary skills
Drama freelancers often possess other complementary skills such as:
- Creative writing
- Poetry
- Public speaking
- Communication skills
- Teaching/training
- Video editing (for screenwriters)
Benefits of hiring a drama freelancer
Hiring a drama freelancer can bring numerous benefits:
- Access to specialised expertise and creative talent
- Fresh perspectives and innovative ideas
- Cost-effective solutions for specific project needs
- Flexibility and scalability based on project demands
Whether you need a scriptwriter to craft a compelling narrative for a corporate video, a playwright to develop a thought-provoking theatre piece, or a drama facilitator to engage your team in creative exercises, a skilled drama freelancer can elevate your project and bring your vision to life.
Real-world examples
Here are a few examples of how drama skills are applied in real-world projects:
- A company hires a playwright to create an interactive training programme that uses dramatic scenarios to teach employees about customer service.
- A marketing agency commissions a screenwriter to develop a series of engaging video scripts for a social media campaign.
- A school hires a drama facilitator to run workshops that build confidence and communication skills in students.
