Recommended by Andrew Martineau

  • All-Star Attitude
    7 Apr. 2021
    In ALL-STAR ATTITUDE, Baughfman uses humor to set up a conflict between two fathers with radically different views about the value of sports, competition and toughness at a very young age. The play is hysterical from the start, and it leads to a climax that is quite realistic and a little disturbing. It reveals so much about parental expectations that seem proactive but could be considered potentially damaging on an emotional level. Well done!
  • (Un)Scripted
    6 Apr. 2021
    As Miranda is trying to make it to the next module in the script, I feel her frustration and disappointment after the feedback she is given about her verbal exchange with the “barista.” While this play certainly educates audiences about autism, I love that Miranda is relatable to anyone who has been in an awkward social situation and feels they have passed the test. We know in our hearts that she has passed it with flying colors. Wonderful!
  • How to Talk to Your Child About Satan
    4 Apr. 2021
    This is a bold, thought-provoking play on rituals and beliefs and community. A child gives her truth in a simple, rational explanation of the dark side that is persuasive enough to sway some followers. The entire piece is fresh and riveting, and highly topical. An astonishing piece in its theatrical audacity. Recommended!
  • Polar Opposites
    2 Apr. 2021
    From the extremely clever title to the confusion that ensues for these penguin couples, this is what I would call a smart comedy. It is very funny, and it is also insightful and fascinating, considering humans don’t really act like penguins. However, in comparison, we can see parallels due to the skillful writing, and it is comedy gold!
  • Blink of an Eye
    2 Apr. 2021
    It is true that our lives can change instantaneously by a single irresponsible act, and this powerful play of monologues shows the horrific ripple effect of devastation on a family and their friends. Lamedman creates layer after layer of remorse, confusion and anger through these intersecting reflections, each told in a unique and authentic voice. I was heartbroken by the end but deeply moved.
  • Lovely Young Children
    2 Apr. 2021
    There is a beautiful sense of moral responsibility incited out of respect for these young women, who were indeed, lovely, and the message is that they deserve to be treated as human beings, regardless of their circumstances or actions. This is a powerful, evocative play for our times.
  • Carnality
    1 Apr. 2021
    There is a palpable feeling of sadness in this play for a couple who must remain in each other’s lives not only for the sake of their very young child, but also because they still have a physical and emotional connection to each other that is raw and familiar like the steak we can smell being cooked. Loewenstern gives us a taste of the confusing dance a newly divorced couple performs and it is quite powerful.
  • Fatherhood (short play)
    31 Mar. 2021
    Does any father truly know how to deal with his daughter growing up? This play is a humorous exchange between a dad caught in limbo as his little girl starts to date and a friend, I assume, who is asking the tough questions. I could relate to this conundrum. Funny and serious at the same time.
  • Secret Family Recipes
    31 Mar. 2021
    This is the kind of lighthearted comedy with slightly dark overtones that were very common in another era but less so today. I don’t think it’s because audiences like them less; rather, they may take more effort to write to get the tone and cadence right. I really enjoyed it!
  • Size Ten
    31 Mar. 2021
    Whenever I read a monologue that is a story and not necessarily directed toward a specific person, I try to imagine how it would be staged. My mind ran through multiple creative choices, which for me speaks to the originality of the piece. I imagined Suzy eventually taking off her shoes to show her newfound confidence in her feet. I also imagined it performed by an actor with average-sized feet, which would reveal another, very different character choice. Either way, it would be great for auditions. It would really stand out!

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