Here at the Playwrights' Center, we choose to assume good intent among our members and their work. Yet, we also want to provide a space that allows for constructive feedback from various identities, backgrounds, and experiences. Sometimes, a piece of writing can be unintentionally triggering for a variety of reasons. If you find yourself uncomfortable at any moment, don't feel pressured to continue reading. If you read a play description and are unsure whether it's right for you, please email Alayna Jacqueline Barnes, alaynab@pwcenter.org, for further information—including spoilers if that's what you need.

SEPTEMBER SCRIPT CLUB READER SIGN UP

PRIVATE FIRE by Kirt Allen Shineman

Hope and Tate built their dream home to start a family. But it is 2020, and the California hills in Sonoma County are dry, crisp, and primed for fire. When Tate and Hope visit a private fire insurance company, Jim gives them the VIP treatment, shows off the hot new technology and argues for Tate and Hope to purchase his expensive private firefighting policy. Hope and Tate must choose to have a baby or use the baby fund to pay for the insurance. Private Fire is a sizzling story about the frigid world of insurance.

Is this script right for you?

This play includes foul and graphic (violent) language, physical violence

*If you have further questions about the script's content to help decide whether this session is right for you, please reach out to me.

THE QUICKENING by Margo Wolfe

Set in 1888, four midwives navigate a hostile city from grisly murders, restrictive laws, misinformation about their profession, and each other. 

Is this script right for you?

This play includes discussions of death, abortion, loss of a child, sexual assault, victim-blaming

*If you have further questions about the script's content to help decide whether this session is right for you, please reach out to me.