Don Zolidis: The Playwright Inspiring American High Schools
Don Zolidis might not be a familiar name to most, but he’s a steady and influential presence in high school theatre. By the end of 2024, his plays are expected to reach a major milestone with 25,000 productions. While his work hasn’t appeared on Broadway, Zolidis has made a significant impact by writing plays that connect deeply with students and teachers nationwide.
A Leader in Educational Theatre
In a theatre world often focused on Broadway stages, Zolidis has quietly become one of the most frequently produced playwrights in American schools. His plays, such as 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse and The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, are among the top choices for high school productions. For the 2022–2023 season, Zolidis’ plays were listed as some of the most-produced works in U.S. high schools.
While his name may not be as widely recognized outside of educational circles, Zolidis’ ability to write engaging, student-centered content has cemented his place in the hearts of many drama programs. His scripts, which are often humorous and flexible, have become a go-to for educators looking for plays that fit both the interests of students and the practical realities of school theatre.
Milestones on the Horizon
As 2024 nears its close, Zolidis’ plays, published through Playscripts, which provides access to a vast library of plays and musicals for performance, reading, and enjoyment, are projected to surpass 25,000 productions and 50,000 performances. His work, written specifically with educational settings in mind, offers a combination of creativity and accessibility that makes his plays perfect for high school stages. Zolidis focuses on stories that are easy to stage but rich in student growth and participation opportunities.
These achievements are a testament to his enduring connection with young performers and educators alike. Teachers often find his plays easy to adapt, affordable, and rewarding for their students. Zolidis’ work inspires budding actors and the directors who bring these productions to life.
A Path Rooted in Education
Zolidis’ success comes from understanding the needs of his audience. As a theatre teacher, he knows firsthand the challenges of putting on a production with limited resources and time. This experience has allowed him to craft stories that meet the unique needs of school productions—whether it’s flexible casting or content that engages students and their communities.
His relationship with Playscripts has played a major role in getting his work into the hands of teachers across the United States. By offering a wide selection of his plays, from comedies to more serious pieces, Zolidis has helped keep theatre a lively and accessible art form for schools nationwide.
Looking Ahead
As Don Zolidis approaches the significant milestone of 25,000 productions, his influence on educational theatre remains strong. His work will continue to provide an accessible platform for students to explore the world of performance and for teachers to foster a love for theatre in their classrooms. To explore his impressive collection of plays and learn more about his journey from teacher to top playwright, you can visit his official website or read about his career highlights.
