Better way Quote by Annie Baker
“For early plays of mine, I started with character. But I think that's because I hadn't been in theaters; I hadn't worked that much. I'm very interested in character, obviously, but once I started having my plays produced, I became so fascinated by the theatrical experiment and the weirdness of theatrical space, so now all my plays start with space and stage picture and setting - or container is maybe the better way to put it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New York Times, 2015
She shifted focus from character to the physical space of theater, seeing stage design as a container that shapes narrative.
In simple terms: She now starts plays with space rather than character.
Consider how environment influences story.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- playwriting workshops
- directing rehearsals
- set design meetings
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does physical space affect character development?
- What balance should be struck between setting and persona?
Space can limit character depth if overemphasized.