←Recommendations of Her Smile

A fabulously classic example of the "what ifs" we face in life. Michael's musings over the events of 'that evening' have you dying to know what happened by half way down page 1! Its a brilliantly crafted tale that could be so simply staged. Its the kind of piece that, while short, would have the audience on the edge of their seat asking "does he or doesn't he?" and that is a great crafted piece!

"Her Smile" is a delightful and original take on the recognizable two-strangers-in-a-bar motif. Along the way, Christopher Plumridge shows us that at any moment, life can change direction a million different ways, based on the tiniest decisions we make.

Audiences will recognize the setup but they'll be surprised by the way the story goes. Well done!

I almost wrote, "Christopher Plumridge has invented a fascinating new genre: the sad sack noir." But he tricked me. I won't tell you how. There's too much joy in finding out for yourself.

Monologuing in the past tense is dangerous business; one runs the risk of losing the urgency, the now. Plumridge and protagonist keep us steadfastly present, ably aided and abetted by a barkeep who says little and a potential femme fatale who doesn't need words. Loneliness, isolation, temptation, lust, and yearning adorn the cocktail menu at this hotel watering hole.

It's resonant, surprising, and just damn elegant!

While the story of a middle-aged businessman in a bar being tempted by an attractive woman in a red dress is a familiar one, Plumridge puts a unique twist on the tale of “what might have been” vs. “what did I do”! Michael’s musings show a sophistication of language and offer a compelling blend of desire and melancholy. Very well done!