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Notes for Layout of Stage Plays

Notes on layout of scripts for stage plays: (not in any particular order)

Prepared by Andre Surridge


  1. Type on one side of the paper only and ensure text is clear and legible.
  2. List all characters at the front of the script with character notes and any doubling that is required.
  3. Ensure pages are sequentially numbered.
  4. Have the title of the play and name of the playwright on each page of text(unless it is a competition entry in which case only the title should appear).
  5. The characters' names should be written at the left margin, in CAPITAL LETTERS.
  6. Use double spacing between the lines of different characters.
  7. Use double spacing between lines and stage directions.
  8. Use single spacing when one character is speaking.
  9. The stage directions should be written in CAPITAL LETTERS, or alternatively in italics.
  10. Leave good margins.
  11. Ensure your name and address are on the title page.
  12. Ensure the copyright symbol followed by your name and the year are also on your title page eg (c) Andre Surridge 1999.


     JOHN:  Where the hell has it gone?

     JANE searches frantically under the couch.

     JANE:  It might be under here. (She's crying now)

     JOHN:  What are you crawling round on the floor for?

     JANE:  You can't find it - you've lost it. I s'pose you forgot to feed it.

     JOHN:  Feed what?

     JANE:  (Getting impatient) The pet weasel that you said you got for me while
            I was away!

     JOHN:  It's an animated weasel, you loony! It's in the computer. Not under
            the couch.