On & Off The Page Workshop

On & Off the Page is an interactive writing and performance workshop designed to build a bridge between screenwriters and actors. Hosted by AYAFY and DC Stage Society, this collaborative experience gives writers the chance to hear their scenes performed live and gives actors the opportunity to bring new characters and stories to life.

Writers will submit a short scene in advance and share any essential character details or casting needs. During the workshop, actors will be paired with selected scenes for live table reads. After each reading, writers will receive thoughtful feedback from fellow participants and two award-winning producers—helping them better understand how their dialogue, characters, pacing, stakes, and emotional beats land in the room.

Actors will gain practical cold-reading and collaboration experience, connect with local writers and producers, and explore original material in a supportive, low-pressure creative setting.

Whether you are refining a screenplay, testing a new scene, building your acting community, or looking for fresh creative collaborators, this workshop is a space to listen, experiment, connect, and grow.

Your story. Your stage.

What to expect

• Live readings of original scenes by participating actors

• Constructive feedback from writers, actors, peers, and award-winning producers

• A collaborative space to test dialogue, character voice, pacing, and emotional impact

• Opportunities for writers and actors to meet and build future creative partnerships

• Guided discussion focused on development, not judgment

Who it’s for

• Screenwriters with a short scene they want to hear performed

• Actors who want to practice reading new material and collaborating with writers

• Emerging and established DMV creatives interested in screenwriting, performance, and film community

Important details

This is a developmental workshop—not a final casting call or a fully staged production. Writers should arrive ready to hear their work with curiosity and openness. Actors should arrive ready to make bold choices, support the text, and collaborate generously.

The workshop will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at Spooky Action Theatre, 1810 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009.

Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made 14 days or more before the workshop will receive a full refund. Cancellations made 7 to 13 days before the workshop will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made less than 7 days before the workshop are non-refundable, but registrations may be transferred to another participant up to 24 hours before the event with prior approval from DC Stage Society.