Ah, the art of writing a one-person show. It’s like going on a blind date with yourself and hoping you like what you see. But fear not, my brave writer. You’ve already taken the first step by discovering the Central Moment of your show. Now it’s time to dive deeper.

Let’s start by acknowledging that writing a solo show takes guts. But don’t worry, you can still keep it private. In fact, you could keep it so private that it becomes your own little secret. Like that time you tried to learn how to salsa dance in your living room with your cat as your partner. No one needs to know about that.

As you explore the Central Moment of your story (of your life!), think about what led up to it. Consider the concert of influences, events, people, culture. Dig deep to look for the roots of it. What happened in your family during your childhood? What happened with your ancestors and how did they shape your parents? What kind of impact did the trauma of The Big Bang have on you? (I’m cracking myself up with this one.)

Now it’s time to talk about turning points. How did the Central Moment change your world? Did you start wearing a fedora? Did you suddenly develop a love for bathing suits? Don’t be afraid to get specific.

And let’s not forget about through lines. What coincidences and synchronicities have you noticed that relate to your Central Moment? Did you have a dream when you were four years old about being a clown? Write it down and connect the dots.

But most importantly, write write write. Don’t censor yourself. Let yourself be surprised. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll be performing your one-person show on Broadway. Or maybe just in your living room with your cat as your only audience member. Either way, it’s a win-win.

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Alicia Dattner

Comedian and Creatrix Alicia Dattner is an internationally-acclaimed, award-winning performer who loves to help others use the power of humor to transform their lives and write a new unfolding story for the world.

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