Recommended by Julie Zaffarano

A childhood desire that shows at an early age what a strong, independent woman this character will become. But fulfilled desires often have a cost.

What makes this play so heartbreaking is the truth that people are living this. And we know the pain will continue and each birthday will be a reminder.

Family holidays rarely meet expectations and the speaker of this monologue is definitely disappointed. A funny piece, especially for a holiday shorts festival.

Beautifully constructed and emotional play. Love the telling mother-daughter relationship.

What we think are stereotypical characters are skillfully turned on their heads in this comedy. Meeting the parent was never quite like this.

Even when you are at a mature age and know who you are, you can still long for a parent’s acceptance. Paul Donnelly shows us that understanding and accepting ourselves is the greatest gift we can give.

An insightful peek into the complexities of a relationship, where we root for this young couple trying to find their truth. Well done.

Keeyna Jackson’s dark comedy “Unprecedented” is a strong commentary on race in the United States. We feel for Mary as the hopes she has for her workplace dissolves. Love “Rasheeda” — Mary’s smart device. Powerful addition to ten minute play festivals.

Brilliant and fun. Marguerite Louise Scott's dark comedy will keep you guessing with its unexpected twists. The moment you lull yourself into complacency, there's another turn. Would love to see this staged. Well done.

During the most intense years of the cold war, a young Jewish couple struggles with their career and family ambitions, as well as where they “fit in” in society. Their world is complicated when FBI agents ask to use the basement of their apartment to observe the neighbors. This fast-paced play is compelling and explores interesting thematic questions: How far will you go to get what you want? What will you forgive in others and in yourself? Well done.