present a play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "present a play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of performing or showcasing a theatrical production to an audience. Example: "The drama club will present a play next weekend at the community theater."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

We did not present a play by Strindberg.

The New York Times

Ms. Stewart would sometimes present a play — like "The Room," by Harold Pinter — without authorization.

The New York Times

"Though we didn't present a play, we offered a spectacle for audiences to see, listen to and think about.

The New York Times - Arts

This weekend a local branch of No Limits will present a play on a theme its members know well: overcoming obstacles.

The New York Times - Arts

On a recent Sunday, parents gathered, music blared and a group of Sidi Moumen children took to the stage to present a play entitled "There Is Always Hope".

The New York Times

The Amoralists present a play by Lyle Kessler ("Orphans"), directed by David Fofi, about an incendiary meeting of three college students, a professor, and a stranger in a college dorm.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Many artists have pointed out that copyright, even at its best, can present a playing field tilted in favour of the companies that shepherded its passage into law.

The Guardian - Tech

Each year Victory Gardens presents a play about African-American life.

The New York Times

Presented, a play is drama; read, a play is literature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

JACK GOES BOATING LAByrinth Theatre Company presents a play by Bob Glaudini, about dating, drugs, and betrayal.

The New Yorker

Rattlestick presents a play by Ken Urban, in which a widower hires a woman to communicate with his late wife.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about theatrical productions, use "present a play" to denote the act of a company or group staging a performance. This is a versatile phrase suitable for various contexts, from formal announcements to casual reviews.

Common error

Avoid using "present a play" when discussing non-theatrical presentations. The phrase is specific to stage productions; using it in other contexts can sound awkward or unnatural. For instance, don't say "The company will present a project" when you mean "The company will introduce a project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present a play" functions as a verb phrase where "present" is the verb and "a play" is the direct object. It describes the act of staging or showcasing a theatrical production. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "present a play" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that refers to staging or performing a theatrical production. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to inform or announce theatrical performances. While considered neutral in register, its versatility allows for use across various contexts. When writing, be mindful of using it specifically in theatrical settings to avoid awkwardness in other contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stage a play

Emphasizes the act of putting a play on stage, focusing on the practical aspects of production.

perform a play

Highlights the act of acting out a play, focusing on the performance aspect.

put on a play

Similar to staging, but with a slightly more informal tone.

produce a play

Focuses on the overall process of bringing a play to the stage, including logistical and financial aspects.

showcase a play

Emphasizes the act of displaying a play to an audience, often highlighting its quality or uniqueness.

mount a production of a play

A more formal and elaborate way of saying "stage a play".

offer a play

Suggests making a play available to an audience.

feature a play

Highlights the play as a central element of a performance or event.

debut a play

Focuses on the first presentation of a play to the public.

unveil a play

Suggests a ceremonial or special presentation of a play.

FAQs

What does it mean to "present a play"?

To "present a play" means to stage or perform a theatrical production for an audience. It encompasses all aspects of bringing a play to life, from rehearsals to the final performance.

What can I say instead of "present a play"?

You can use alternatives like "stage a play", "perform a play", or "put on a play" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "presenting a play" the same as "producing a play"?

While related, they aren't identical. "Presenting a play" refers to the act of staging a performance, while "producing a play" encompasses the overall management and financial aspects of bringing the play to the stage. A producer might hire a company to "present a play".

Which is more formal, "present a play" or "put on a play"?

"Present a play" is generally considered more formal than "put on a play". The latter has a slightly more casual or informal connotation.