Did you know that 10-15 pages of your script is actually information pages? Like a title page, a scene synopsis, musical numbers and the headers of each new scene?
I recently started a new writing project, developed a full outline and then felt no motivation to actually write it.
But what I did do, helped me to find the motivation to start writing... here's what I did...
I started a new document.
I created a title page, a list of characters, a synopsis of scene locations and then on a separate page for each scene, I listed ACT ONE - SCENE 1 and entered my setting and "at rise" information.
When I was done, I had 15 pages of a script!
I saved it and walked away as I do regularly. I'm a firm believer that the subconscious mind needs seeding to get the system working. So by walking away, I allow the time for ideas to develop. I went and painted a room.
While I was painting, the ideas started flowing... characters, dialogue bits, lyrics - you name it. By the time I was done painting, I had enough motivation to start filling in the story.
When I had entered everything that came to mind - I had another 15 pages.
30 pages in a day!
Now to be realistic here, it's not a script yet. But each scene has enough information for me to now sit down and work through it.
This is very different from my usual approach - more mechanical than inspired, but by working through the mechanical aspects, I was able to become inspired and get it down on paper.
Sometimes the mechanical approach is enough to get it started. Especially for those stories that come easily but don't get out easily.
Next time you have a story but don't feel motivated to write it. Try just building the script document, then see what comes out!
Alan Saunders, WRITEineer.com
Friends told me I was late to the game for writing musicals, even though I've been writing them almost my entire life. so this blog is my journey into writing professionally for the stage.
Check out WRITEineer.com for how-to articles and resources for writing your own musical for the stage!