From Quill to Curtain: Crafting Plays Inspired by History
January 17, 31 and February 14, 2026
This three-part workshop series invites writers of all levels to explore the craft of playwriting through the lens of historical figures and events. Participants will develop narrative structure, use of primary sources and character development while considering how the past connects to the present.
Facilitated by Howard University Professor of Dramaturgy and Playwriting Denise Hart, each session will build on the last and the series will culminate with a sharing of excerpts from participants’ works.
A commitment to all three sessions is strongly encouraged. The series will be held at the Center for Education and Leadership on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on January 17, 31 and February 14, 2026.
Workshop facilitator
Denise J. Hart, is Professor of Playwriting and Dramaturgy at Howard University. She is the recipient of the 2024 Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts Full Professor award for Scholarly Research and Creative Endeavors. Hart is the recipient of several international playwriting honors and awards: This Joy, (former finalist in the Eugene O’Neill National Playwrights competition and the Lark Fellowship,) Nothing to Lose (finalist 2018 Bay Area Playwrights). Production dramaturge credits include: Putnam County Spelling Bee, Jitney, Milk Like Sugar, Sweet Charity, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone and Day of Absence. As a scholar presentation coach, for six years, Hart coached internationally recognized scholars, artists and activists for appearances on the Lone Star Emmy nominated Blackademics TV, which airs on PBS.