Theatrical techniques: How to use play structure in novel development  

A powerful approach to crafting stories is to incorporate theater techniques, particularly the structure of play writing, into the creation of a novel.

Theatrical structure, with its explicit acts, scenes, and dramatic arcs, can add fresh energy to a novel. It can provide a helpful framework that can improve a novel’s pacing, tension, and emotional impact. These techniques can also help writers take charge of their storytelling or find a new way to approach a story that’s struggling to get on the page.

By focusing on elements like rising action, climax, and resolution, writers can create complex plots that keep readers interested from start to finish. This method can elevate a narrative and engage readers more deeply.

Here’s how writers can learn to use the key structures of a play and integrate them smoothly into their novel writing.

First act

The traditional length of the first act of a novel doesn’t need to adhere strictly to the precise structure of a play. However, the following timeline can serve as a valuable guide for writers, illuminating where to effectively commence and conclude the narrative.

• Hook: The opening moment in the opening scene, possibly the first line.
• Setup: The readers learn about the characters, their goals, and the stakes.
• Inciting event: The turning point halfway through, or the Call to Adventure. The Call to Adventure in the hero’s journey marks a pivotal moment when the protagonist considers leaving their ordinary world and embarks on a quest that will challenge them and lead to transformation.
• Build-up: The final pieces necessary for the central conflict move into position, ramping up tension.
• First plot point: The pivotal moment that bridges the first and second acts is the Key Event, serving as a dramatic gateway that propels the narrative forward and deepens the characters’ journeys.

Second Act

By weaving in detailed settings and sensory descriptions, the second act of the novel should immerse readers in the story’s world. It’s crucial that this section delves deeply into the characters’ motivations, conflicts, and relationships, while also exploring their fears, desires, and transformations.

• Reaction: The protagonist scrambles to understand the obstacles thrown by the antagonist.
• First pinch point: A reminder of the antagonist’s power provides clues to the nature of the conflict.
• Realization: The protagonist’s reactions evolve into thoughtful responses.
• Midpoint: The central truth to the nature of conflict, or the Moment of Truth. The Moment of Truth in the hero’s journey is when the main character makes an important realization about their conflict. This realization forces them to face their fears and rethink their motivations as they get ready for the challenges ahead.
• Action: The fully-informed protagonist makes headway against the antagonist.

Third Act

The third act of the novel should strive toward a compelling conclusion. This is where the writer should weave the narrative’s intricate threads together, such as character arcs, subplots, and thematic elements. By revisiting earlier motifs and tying loose ends, the conclusion should not only resolve conflicts but also reflect the growth and transformations of the characters, leaving the audience with a lasting impression of the story’s overarching message.

• Third plot point: After the victory, the protagonist experiences a reversal.
• Recovery: The protagonist crashes out by questioning choices, commitment, worth, and ability.
• Climax: The narrative’s turning point, when the protagonist can finally face the other.
• Confrontation: A literal or metaphoric duel to the death. Neither the protagonist nor the antagonist can walk away.
• Climactic moment: The protagonist achieves their goal, rendering the conflict physically impossible to continue.
• Resolution: The author eases readers out of the climax’s excitement and into the final emotion.