@dramatistsguild @kimstinson

Writing groups can be a source of help and inspiration to those of us who typically work in a creative vacuum such as playwriting. Western North Carolina playwrights have not had to struggle on alone, if they want feedback and camaraderie during their writing process. The Lost Playwrights of Western North Carolina offers a creative sanctuary for those who seek one.

Founded in 2004, the group is organized by Dramatists Guild member, Ludy Wilkie, who sends out meeting notices. Wilkie states that the group is open and friendly with members from not just the Asheville area, but also, from as far afield as South Carolina and Florida.

Wilkie, who holds a master’s degree in English, has had productions of his work develop out of his involvement with the group. “The Lost Playwrights meetings are vital,” says Wilkie. “We all leave energized with new ideas.”

Others who attend feel much the same way. Member Jane Jones has, “enjoyed having a place where I can share works in progress and receive constructive feedback and support.”

Pat Vestal moved to the Hendersonville area in 2011 and has benefitted from attending the Lost Playwrights meetings which have led to collaborations with other playwrights on works that have received multiple readings, to the development of a monthly open mic night, and to leading playwriting workshops in the area. Fellow members’ works have been read at the open mic nights organized by Vestal which is a good example of an additional opportunity gained through networking within the group.

Another member, J. Carson Sloan, feels that, “this group is supportive and probably the reason I’ve continued to write, despite times—even years—when I was too busy to attend meetings or write anything. Whey I show up and bring pieces of works in progress, I am always welcome, which is encouraging.”

It is common for local actors to attend meetings to participate in reading work brought by members. This has been a great help to several of the writers of the group. Occasionally, writers of other genres such as fiction and poetry will attend the meetings and offer helpful feedback from their perspectives. Anyone struggling with the frustrations of writer’s block or in need of an outside perspective is encouraged to attend a Lost Playwright’s meeting or find a writing group near you.

The Lost Playwrights meetings are typically held at the Henderson County Public Library on the third or fourth Saturday of the month. There are no dues for the group and anyone interested in information about upcoming meetings for The Lost Playwrights may contact Ludy Wilkie at ludy@shelby.net.

If you are interested in starting your own playwriting group in your area, you may also contact Wilkie for advice. And, if you do begin a group, be sure to let me know. As the regional representative for North Carolina, I am often contacted by Dramatists Guild members looking for a writing group to join.

kstinson@dramatistsguild.com