This weekend I had the pleasure of attending a show written by 8 different writers, set in a graveyard, with Fate embodied by a handsome actor in a posh suit trying to keep two young lovers from committing suicide. To do this he raises the ghosts of various famous people, including Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. to talk the two “star-crossed” lovers out of their plan. Good stuff. The play itself still needed work, but it was expertly directed by my dear friend and colleague, Rick Mowat, and well-acted by a talented and enthusiastic group of actors. A good time was had by all, and kudos!
Here’s the exercise: Answer the following questions for your main character, and then write it up as a brief monologue.
1. If your main character were driven to consider suicide, what would drive them to this act of desperation?
2. What would be the setting and weapon of choice?
3. What historical figure’s ghost could talk them down and what would they say?
4. What would your main character do a result?
