From Shakespeare’s timeless insights into the human condition to contemporary playwrights’ groundbreaking works, the voices that shape theater impact all actors—whether first-time thespians or seasoned performers. Familiarization with these playwrights and their works will not only broaden an actor’s artistic range but also deepen their understanding of diverse theatrical traditions. So without further ado (about nothing), here’s a list of notable playwrights who have made significant impacts on the industry.
1. William Shakespeare
Notable works: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (1596), “Hamlet” (1602), “Macbeth” (1606)
Years of publication: Late 16th century to early 17th century
Shakespeare is often hailed as the greatest playwright in the English language, whose iconic characters—such as the villainous Iago, magical Ariel, and passionate-to-a-fault Juliet—have stood the test of time. With over 30 plays, Shakespeare’s oeuvre includes comedies, tragedies, histories, and romances, and his mastery of language is legendary. (If you’ve ever used words like puissance, egregious, sceptered, or even kicky-wicky, you have the Bard to thank.) His character development and dramatic structure provide a foundation for understanding classic theatrical techniques, making his plays essential for honing skills in iambic pentameter, character portrayals, and emotional depth.
2. Lorraine Hansberry
Notable works: “A Raisin in the Sun” (1959), “The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window” (1964)
Years of publication: Mid-20th century
Hansberry was the first Black female playwright to have a play produced on Broadway. Her works tackle issues of race, class, and gender with an unflinching honesty that continues to resonate today, making them essential to understand the intersectionality of race and identity in America. Actors taking on her rich, multifaceted characters can use the opportunity to explore deep emotional and social complexities.
3. August Wilson
Notable works: “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (1984), “Fences” (1985), “The Piano Lesson” (1987)
Years of publication: Late 20th century to early 21st century
Wilson’s renowned 10-play series known as “The Pittsburgh Cycle” chronicles the African-American experience throughout the 20th century. Each play is set in a different decade, providing a comprehensive exploration of Black life in America.
Overall, Wilson’s works demand a deep understanding of cultural and historical contexts, providing actors with powerful roles that address themes of identity, struggle, and resilience. His dialogue is known for its lyrical quality and depth, offering bountiful material for performance.
4. Anton Chekhov
Notable works: “The Seagull” (1896), “Uncle Vanya” (1897), “The Cherry Orchard” (1903)
Years of publication: Late 19th century to early 20th century
Chekhov is a master of the modern short story and drama; his are known for their subtlety, depth, and exploration of complicated characters and social issues. His plays are a study in subtext and the inner lives of characters. Actors can learn to navigate the nuances of human behavior and emotion, mastering the art of conveying profound meaning through seemingly simple dialogue.
5. Tennessee Williams
Notable works: “The Glass Menagerie” (1944), “A Streetcar Named Desire” (1947), “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” (1955)
Years of publication: Mid-20th century
One of America’s most significant writers, Williams is known for his poignant and often brutal examination of the human condition. His plays delve into themes of desire, mental illness, and the fragility of human relationships. Emotionally charged characters provide actors with the opportunity to explore intense psychological landscapes, enriched by the playwright’s use of poetic language and symbolic imagery.
6. Sarah Kane
Notable works: “Blasted” (1995), “Cleansed” (1998), “4.48 Psychosis” (2000)
Years of publication: Late 20th century
Kane’s work is renowned for its raw, uncompromising exploration of themes such as pain, love, and mental illness. Her plays are often stark, shocking, and deeply emotional. They challenge actors to confront extreme emotional and physical states, pushing the boundaries of traditional performance and offering a chance to explore contemporary issues with honesty and intensity.
7. Tom Stoppard
Notable works: “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” (1966), “Arcadia” (1993), “The Coast of Utopia” (2002)
Years of publication: Mid-20th century to present
Stoppard’s wit, intellectual depth, and playful exploration of philosophical and scientific themes imbue his works, which blend complex narratives with sharp dialogue. Intricate plots and clever wordplay require actors to be quick-witted and intellectually engaged, while the existential dilemmas his characters often find themselves in offer rich material for exploration.
8. Suzan-Lori Parks
Notable works: “In the Blood” (1999), “Topdog/Underdog” (2001), “Father Comes Home From the Wars” (2014)
Years of publication: Late 20th century to present
In 2002, Parks—a protégé of the late, great James Baldwin—became the first Black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for drama. Known for her innovative storytelling and exploration of African-American identity, her works often juxtapose historical context with contemporary issues to create a unique theatrical experience. Parks’ characters are multifaceted, providing actors with the chance to delve into dynamic emotional and social landscapes; and her use of language and structure challenges traditional narratives, offering a fresh perspective for performance.
9. Henrik Ibsen
Notable works: “A Doll’s House” (1879), “An Enemy of the People” (1882), “Hedda Gabler” (1890)
Years of publication: Late 19th century
Ibsen is often referred to as the “father of modern drama.” His plays are known for their critical perspective on society and exploration of individual psychology. They offer a deep dive into societal norms and personal conflict, providing actors with rich, challenging roles. His realistic approach to dialogue and character development is vital for understanding modern dramatic techniques.
10. Caryl Churchill
Notable works: “Cloud Nine” (1979), “Top Girls” (1982), “A Number” (2002)
Years of publication: Late 20th century to present
Churchill is celebrated for her experimental approach to theater, focus on feminist and social issues, and challenge to traditional structures. Her innovative use of language and form offers actors a chance to engage with unconventional narratives and characters. Plus, her plays often require versatility and adaptability, providing a unique challenge for performers.
11. Hansol Jung
Notable works: “Cardboard Piano” (2016), “Wild Goose Dreams” (2017), “Wolf Play” (2019)
Years of publication: Present
Jung is a rising playwright known for her unique storytelling that explores themes of identity, connection, and cultural dislocation. She deftly blends lyrical language with innovative theatrical forms, creating dynamic and emotionally resonant narratives. Jung’s plays frequently incorporate elements of both Eastern and Western cultures and showcase richly textured characters, requiring actors to develop a deep understanding of cultural nuance and a strong command of language. Performers can use her works to engage with contemporary issues in creative and meaningful ways, making them valuable resources for those seeking to push the boundaries of their craft.
12. Quiara Alegría Hudes
Notable works: “In the Heights” (2005), “Elliot, A Soldier’s Fugue” (2006), “Water by the Spoonful” (2011)
Years of publication: Early 21st century
Hudes is a Pulitzer Prize winner whose character-driven stories portray themes of identity, community, and resilience. Her collaboration with Lin-Manuel Miranda on the film adaptation of “In the Heights” brought her significant acclaim. Hudes’ characters are vivid and deeply human, providing actors with roles that require emotional depth and authenticity. Her works often reflect the chaos of modern life and importance of cultural identity, offering a valuable perspective for contemporary actors.
13. Lynn Nottage
Notable works: “Intimate Apparel” (2003), “Ruined” (2008), “Sweat” (2015)
Years of publication: Late 20th century to present
A two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright of powerful, socially conscious dramas, Nottage often addresses issues of race, gender, and economic disparity, providing a voice to marginalized communities. Her richly drawn characters and compelling narratives offer actors the opportunity to explore deeply emotional and socially relevant themes.
14. Wole Soyinka
Notable works: “The Lion and the Jewel” (1959), “A Dance of the Forests” (1960), “Death and the King’s Horseman” (1975)
Years of publication: Mid-20th century to present
One of Nigeria’s most celebrated writers—not to mention a Nobel Prize winner—Soyinka gives a modern twist to traditional African storytelling, addressing issues of colonialism, identity, and political struggle. Characters populating his works are often caught in moral and ethical dilemmas, giving actors the chance to engage with rich cultural narratives and explore the intersection of tradition and modernity.
