WRITING IS NO FUNNY BUSINESS FOR SAM ZASLOW-BRAVERMAN

By Sophie Indiana Fischer ‘23

    Sophomore Sam Zaslow-Braverman has always loved acting and the arts. Even more, however, he loves playwriting, an activity that is not only enjoyable and therapeutic for him, but a career move. ​

    “It's a really fun activity and a kind of a coping mechanism for me,” Zaslow-Braverman said.
Beginning his writing career at age seven, Zaslow-Braverman writes pieces of all different genres, but he especially connects with comedy.
​    “It just makes me feel a little more positive about a lot of stuff. Sometimes I combine it with a drama or thriller narrative to add nuance, but mostly just straight-up comedy.”
Recently, Zaslow-Braverman was awarded first place in The Theater Project’s annual Young Playwrights Competition, a prestigious playwriting program for high school students across New Jersey. Already quite accomplished, he sets his focus on the future.
    “My main goal is to eventually become a screenwriter… Hopefully, I’ll also get to write a novel somewhere along the line,” he said.
    His friends, teachers and family all see Zaslow-Braverman’s talent, supporting him every step of the way. Fellow sophomore Isabelle Zellan has no doubt that his writing will take him far.
    “I think Sam’s a really talented writer! Whenever we read our writing assignments aloud in class, I’m always impressed with the level of thought that was put into his work. I’m sure he’d do an amazing job of writing a novel!” Zellan said. 
    Zaslow-Braverman continues to work on improving his craft, fully understanding that to be a good writer, dedication and effort are necessary. He takes classes and writes both independently and in school to learn more techniques and skills to further his writing skills.
Ms. Mittleman, who has worked with Zaslow-Braverman on multiple projects, including GOA’s 2020 production of The Drowsy Chaperone, has some advice for the hardworking writer. 
    “As someone who is constantly surrounded by artists at the early stages of their career as well as those who are thriving, I’ve learned that creative people should never equate their sense of self and fulfillment with career success. It takes a long time to build a creative career and is not a straight path,” Ms. Mittleman said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling, but he should explore the other things that also make him feel fulfilled along his journey and make sure to surround himself with great people.”
    With his keen sense of humor and gift for storytelling, Zaslow-Braverman’s talent for writing makes not only himself and everyone around him happier. Excited to see where Zaslow-Braverman’s abilities take him, the GOA community is always inspired by his contagious enthusiasm. 
    ​“I fell in love with [writing] immediately… I highly recommend it!” Zaslow-Braverman said.