Playwright Dave Osmundsen on Autism and the Evolution of Modern Drama

Playwright Dave Osmundsen, known for works including Light Switch and Berrywild, explores the intersection of his identity as an autistic person and his creative process in the latest episode of The Subtext. Hosted by Brian James Polak, the podcast series features conversations with writers about life, writing, and whatever itches we are scratching.

Dave Osmundsen’s Creative Path and Influences

Osmundsen’s body of work has gained recognition through productions at the BLUEBARN Theatre, EPIC Players, and Island City Stage. His writing often incorporates personal experience, specifically regarding his life as an autistic individual. During his conversation on The Subtext, Osmundsen detailed how his childhood experiences at a summer camp in New Hampshire served as the primary inspiration for his epic play, Berrywild.

His academic and professional background includes an MFA from Arizona State University, a credential he earned while navigating both the heat of Arizona and the isolation of a pandemic. Osmundsen has received notable industry accolades, including the inaugural Future of Playwriting Prize, a partnership between The Blank Theatre and Ucross. He has also been a four-time semi-finalist for the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center’s National Playwrights Conference.

Notable Works and Industry Impact

Osmundsen’s play Light Switch has seen regional success. Following an award-winning run in Chicago, the play received its Southeastern premiere at Island City Stage. His work has also extended into collaborative projects, such as the Telephone Plays commissioned by 24/6: A Jewish Theatre Company.

In the current episode of The Subtext, Osmundsen and Polak discuss the long-term process of integrating personal history into dramatic structure. The episode also highlights Sara Farrington’s play Look Out, which Polak selects as a recommended work for the month. The full conversation is available for streaming on iTunes and Spotify.

Key Details for The Subtext Listeners

• Guest: Dave Osmundsen, playwright and MFA graduate.
• Featured Play: Look Out by Sara Farrington.
• Series Host: Brian James Polak.
• Production Credits: Osmundsen’s work has been staged by BLUEBARN Theatre, EPIC Players, and Island City Stage.
• Awards: Inaugural recipient of the Future of Playwriting Prize; four-time O’Neill semi-finalist.

Listeners interested in supporting American theatre can engage with the Theatre Communications Group (TCG), which provides resources and industry journalism for non-profit arts organizations.