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pin the writer roulette wheel and any number you land on is another reason I joined the Dramatists Guild. But one in particular. Protection. From bike helmets to birth control, it’s best to get the protection before the accident happens. I was working on a play (that shall remain nameless, and in fact did remain nameless) where I was asked to come on as the second writer. Because the creatives attached did not want to give up any of their points, I ultimately did not get paid for the enormous amount of work I did. When I tried to find out what rights I had, it seemed I had only lefts. I wasn’t a member of the Guild to have any protections. A lesson hard learned. Apparently, the best things in life ARE free. For others. Even more, if we are lucky enough to make a living in this bonkers profession, it’s also our responsibility to nurture and support the next generations and the ones that are still on the ascent. Being part of the DG is allowing opportunities for those looking for a path, an outlet, encouragement, mentorship, good coffee, and a bathroom to use in Midtown. When the writer’s strike of 2023 was happening and the WGA asked the Tony-nominated writers not to show up at the event, it was the Guild that stood behind us, offered to be our mouthpiece, and negotiated a fair result for all.
When we find ourselves becoming cynical but also accurate, when it seems like our enthusiasm does know bounds, when we realize we have an eight-digit passcode to protect a three-digit balance, there is a place to refuel our souls and share with other writers. A place of opportunity, education, protection, and direction. We are storytellers, and unless we have an outlet to share our stories and hear those of others, we find ourselves alone on an island with no one to vote off. And what fun is that? ★
