What is the purpose of dialogue in a play?

Dialogue in a play serves primarily to convey character interactions, which is critical for character development and the advancement of the plot. Through dialogue, characters express their thoughts, emotions, and relationships with one another, allowing the audience to gain insights into their motivations and conflicts. This interaction drives the narrative forward and engages the audience by revealing the dynamics between characters, shaping their understanding of the story being told.

While describing settings, providing stage directions, and summarizing the plot are elements of dramatic writing, they do not capture the foundational role that dialogue plays in creating a rich, interactive theatrical experience. Dialogue is what brings characters to life, allowing their personalities and conflicts to be explored and understood through their spoken words.