Script formatting example p.1
© Australian Script Centre 2004
SCRIPT FORMAT EXAMPLE
There are a number of different ways that you can format a theatre script. The
example below is a standard formatting and one that we like. (Note that theatre
scripts and film scripts are usually formatted in different ways.)
If you have already written your play and your formatting is different from this, don’t
panic. Formatting for the theatre is flexible up to a point. As long as there is a clear
differentiation between stage directions and dialogue, and the script is easy to read
and carefully proofread, it may well be acceptable.
Don’t forget to put your name and contact details on the cover page.
ACT ONE
SCENE 1
Stage directions are usually given in italics. Some writers put them in UPPER CASE
ITALICS. OTHERS JUST PUT THEM IN UPPER CASE. The main idea is to
differentiate them clearly from the dialogue.
CHARACTER 1 Dialogue is written in sentence case. Character names are given in
upper case – again to differentiate them clearly from the spoken
dialogue.
CHARACTER 2 It’s a good idea to set a second-line tab so that dialogue always
begins on the same vertical line. This makes it clearer and easier
for actors to read.
CHARACTER 1 Dialogue is usually double-spaced between each character’s
speech, but single-spaced within a character’s speech. This again
makes it easier for the actors to differentiate between characters.
CHARACTER 2 Left align everything. Don’t right hand justify the document.
CHARACTER 1 Use a font like Times New Roman or Arial. Fonts like Courier
New and Arial Narrow are hard to read, and fancy fonts are just a
nuisance. Remember that this is a working document and must be
easy for actors and directors to use.
Pause
CHARACTER 2 If you need to write in a pause, it should go in italics or upper case,
the same as other stage directions.
CHARACTER 1 (to herself) Brief stage directions that specifically apply to one
character can be put in the dialogue like this.