Tori and Mabelle host the Five-Minute Frights festival celebrating the work of eight playwrights from around the world who submitted their short plays to the first Hey Playwright short play festival.

Tori and Mabelle talk with Penguin Random House inspirational speaker and creative disruptor, Tania Katan. Tania shares insights about the two Cs of creativity, her life as a best-selling author and Curator of Shenanigans, and how she found her “in” as a public speaker. Tori and Mabelle receive new job titles: Motivational Grader and Storytelling Reporter. Tania drops two writing prompts, including one from her award-winning book, “Creative Trespassing: How To Put The Spark And Joy Back Into Your Work And Life.”

Tori and Mabelle drop helpful tips on prepping for contest submissions (hint: Don’t be like Johnny Smartypants), including resources for finding opportunities. Everyone’s a winner with a  contest-inspired writing prompt.

Tori and Mabelle talk with award-winning playwright and high school senior, Izzy Ster who shares her thoughts about distance learning, the magic of theatre, and the importance of doing what makes you happy. Izzy gives us a timely scene prompt, just right for the times.

Tori and Mabelle announce a call for entries for the 5-Minute Frights - a Zoom festival of spooky short plays. Sign up by October 7, 2020 to get started. More info at heyplaywright.com.

Tori and Mabelle talk with one of their favorite actors, Albert Park. Albert discusses his journey as an actor and what he has been up to during the pandemic. The Twilight Zone, eating off the floor, and junior high are also discussed.  Albert provides a sensory exercise to spark up an idea for something to write about.

Tori and Mabelle talk with playwright, teaching artist, and calming presence Thelma Virata de Castro. Among many other things, Thelma talks about her work as a playwright and a standardized patient. And she serves up a really great prompt. 

Tori and Mabelle discuss where their inspiration comes from, the magic of eavesdropping, and nice smells. There's an exercise to try the next time you go grocery shopping and a writing prompt to get you going.

Tori and Mabelle talk with Dr. Maria Patrice Amon, founder and executive producer of the Latinx New Play Festival at the San Diego Repertory Theatre. Jane Fonda, expired mayonnaise, and the sedentary lifestyle are also discussed. A writing prompt tops off the fun.

Meet Tori and Mabelle, your hosts who talk playwriting, discuss virtual theatre during the pandemic, and compare game faces (or lack thereof). A writing prompt pushing the limits of creative constraints concludes the episode.