Have you been wanting to read more plays but you're not too sure where to look? Or are you already an avid play reader, keen to get your hands on some new or different works? Either way, you've come to the right place!
We have collated a list of some of the best online play subscriptions (or places to read plays) to make it that much easier for you to find.
A Note: We are currently not associated with any of these play houses or subscription portals - we want only to share with you where we like to read already, or sites we intend to try.
Australian Plays
Website: https://australianplays.org/
Good To Know: There are a range of subscriptions to suit your needs, whether you want to read scripts on your own or you need an account that multiple readers can share. Depending on your level of subscription you can access a script up to 5 times, for 5 hours at a time.
Cool Features: When logged in to your profile, every purchase you make at AustralianPlays.org will earn you points towards free scripts from the Australian Script Centre catalogue.
New Play Exchange
Website: https://newplayexchange.org/
Good To Know: For only 10 USD a year, you can find and read unlimited scripts. You can also download them to keep them for later.
Cool Features: You can maintain a script library to keep track of the works you're loving, read and write script recommendations, and even contact writers directly.
Samuel French
Website: https://abbottreader.com/
Good To Know: Abbott Reader is the main database for all Samuel French plays. With an Abbott Reader subscription, you can choose to purchase or rent plays as you need them. Subscriptions are currently only available for customers in the United States.
Cool Features: The reader's tools allow you to take notes in the margin, search for specific lines in the script, highlight lines, and blackout others. Perfect for actors!
Playscripts
Website: https://www.playscripts.com/
- As a full service website, they are also able to tell you about rights for the plays and musical that you're reading on the website, directly through their website as well
- Their catalogue has nearly 3000 plays and musicals from over 1500 writers
Play At Home
Website: https://www.playathome.org/
Good To Know: A response to the stay at home orders of 2020, Baltimore Center Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, The Public Theater, Repertory Theater of St Louis and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company joined forces to create Play at Home. This project features a series of short plays commissioned specifically to respond to this moment in history of unprecedented isolated and inspire connection.
Scribd
Website: https://www.scribd.com/
Good To Know: With an enormous library of scripts, books, journals, papers, audiobooks, magazines and more, Scribd is a great resource for $8.99 USD per month for unlimited use.
Cool Feature: They offer 30 days free when you initially sign up so there is great opportunity to read lots of plays in that time to get a sense for whether you like the site and the resources available.
Where do you love to read scripts online? Are there any you think should have made this list? Let us know in the comments below!