Flash Futures Writing Workshop

The Libraries collaborated with NC State University Theatre to offer an intensive workshop bringing people together to write scripts for 10-minute audio scenes from the future.

Overview

What if, in the future, cathedrals were also observatories? What would it be like to grow up alongside an AI pal that knew you like a soulmate?

As part of the Long View Project, the Libraries collaborated with NC State University Theatre to offer “Flash Futures,” a one-day script-writing intensive to create a ten-minute audio drama based on a Long View Project future scenario. Fourteen students and community script writers participated in the pilot workshop, which took place on Saturday, March 1, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. in Frank Thompson Hall. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to gain experience with imaginative storytelling in response to a hopeful future prompt.

At the conclusion of the workshop, one script was selected for professional editing and production. That audio drama will be featured in “How Did We Get Here?,” a new podcast series created by JoAnna Klein. Using the audio drama as a prompt, JoAnna will challenge disciplinary experts to step out of their comfort zones and respond to the plausibility of the scenario, ultimately answering the question: How did we get here?

How We Did It

A call for artists was created and promoted through university channels. Anyone interested in writing, acting, directing, science, art, theater, sci-fi, or the future was invited to register to participate. The call offered an opportunity to meet other creatives, receive writing feedback from University Theatre staff, and gain experience in imaginative storytelling. 

JoAnna Klein wrote a prompt for the workshop based on her interview, Saving Earth's Starry Cathedral. Mia Self and Danica Jackson from University Theatre planned and conducted the workshop. Karen Ciccone and Christopher Galik also participated on the planning team. The Climate and Sustainability Academy provided lunch and snacks.