Dramaturgen

Dramaturgen refers to a theatre professional who serves as a literary and dramatic advisor in the development of performances. The term is used across languages; in English the common form is dramaturg with the plural dramaturgs, while dramaturgen is the plural in German and some other languages. A dramaturgen studies scripts, researches authors and historical context, and helps interpret themes and narrative structure for the production team.

Core duties include script development and revision, adaptation and translation, researching historical and cultural context, compiling program notes and prefaces, and shaping the production concept with the director and designers. Dramaturges or dramaturgen may scout new work, liaise with playwrights, oversee revisions, and coordinate research for education and outreach. They often work within theatres, opera houses, festivals, and cultural institutions.

Training typically combines advanced study in theatre history, literature, or related fields with practical theatre experience. Many dramaturgens hold graduate degrees and strong competencies in close reading, research, writing, and collaboration. The role is distinct from critics or stage managers; it is embedded in the creative process to facilitate development rather than evaluate a finished production.

Variations exist by country and institution. In contemporary practice, dramaturgens focus on developing new plays, contextualizing classical works, and supporting inclusive and interdisciplinary approaches to theatre and performance.