Recommended by Julie Zaffarano

Beautiful and poignant retelling of the classic story. Keenya Jackson’s “Frankie and Johnny” is authentic — fresh and new. We are reminded that love is everything to a teenager and the loss is too devastating to handle.

Funny and chilling, this roller coaster of a play will have you laughing one minute and thoughtful the next. Keenya Jackson creates a futuristic world that seems fantastical, but , given the last few years, more probable tha we would like to think. Well done.

What do you do when faced with imminent death? During a vacation in Hawaii? Marcia Eppich-Harris takes us on this journey through the eyes of an unsuspecting couple. Fast paced, funny, moving.

I love this play. The characters are real and developed – especially Mom Dad. We see them from the beginning of their marriage until their deaths – how their expectations and dreams change, dissolve, and reform. Although the structure is non-linear, the play is easy to follow with exciting breadcrumbs. The details are lovely and make us feel present – just the right mix of exposition. As much as I enjoy this play on the page, I would love to see it staged, with the music, dance, and the interesting television. I was fortunate to read this play through #BAPF2021.

A well researched and thoughtful interpretation of the conflict and arguments between Chief Justice John Marshall and Thomas Jefferson. I was fortunate to read this play through #BAPF2021.

Love this fun retelling of classic little mermaid tale that focuses on family and friendship. This play inspires imagination and will be loved by children and their adult guests.

Lawing creates a mysterious world with an urgency that we desperately want to decode. I did not expect the final plot twist, which explains the entire play. I was fortunate to read this play through #BAPF2021.

A fun play within a play. I don’t know who would have more fun — the audience or the actors.

A powerful play that deals unapologetically with race, white privilege, liberal racism, elitism, through the lens of teachers in a Quaker school. Characters are authentic with strengths and weaknesses -- with the desire to do the right things, but the confusion of how to best navigate to get there. Would love to see this play produced.

I have witnessed this conversation so many times and can vouch for the authenticity. Megan Ann Jacobs nails the conflict and gives us new insight. Well done.